Guyana Times Daily - September 11, 2015

LGE not possible for 2015 – GECOM

Mother and 4 children missing … distraught

grandmother

pleads for their safe return

Distressed grandmother, Lynette Gocool is pleading for the safe return of her daughter Patricia Gocool and her four grandchildren, Luana Higgins, 9; Leona Higgins, 7; Leanna Higgins, 6; and Lisa Gocool who is about four to six months old; all of Hyde Park, Timehri, East Bank Demerara.

The grandmother shared that she had called on Tuesday around 14:00h for them to come over to collect the night’s dinner as she usually does, but did not make contact with the young woman. She shared that this was strange so she began contacting family members and friends, who indicated that they had neither seen nor heard from the mother and her children since Monday and were unable to produce any helpful information.

The grandmother added that Patricia has never vanished with her daughters be-

fore, and she fails to see why she would opt to do something like this now.

The distraught grandmother added that she was told that her daughter had asked her mother-in-law to look at the children, to which the replied in the negative, telling Patricia that she was not employed and would not be able to look after the young children.

The young lady’s motherin-law had related to Lynette that the children told her that Patricia was going away for a while and that they would be left in the care of a friend.

However, none of the friends that the family contacted was able to provide any useful information.

The children are usually left with their paternal grandmother during the day while Patricia is at work and then picked up during the afternoon.

Lynette mentioned that she was mostly concerned for the wellbeing of her grandchildren, noting that her daughter is a “big woman who

can fend for herself”.

The grandmother added that she has no idea as to why her daughter would want to disappear without informing anyone, as it was very unlike her to vanish without a trace.

When asked if she has any idea as to where her daughter and children might be, Lynette told Guyana Times that the last individual her daughter was involved in a relationship with was usually stationed in Lethem.

The visibly worried grandmother said on Tuesday she made contact with the Timehri Police Station and was promised by ranks there to be contacted should the Force receive any information as to the whereabouts of the woman and her children.

Lynette Gocool is pleading with anyone who knows the whereabouts of her daughter Patricia and her granddaughters Leana, Luana, Leona and Lisa to contact the nearest Police station or call telephone numbers 261-2530, 261-2723, 688-6037, 616-5618 and 684-3794.

Bringing ‘Hope’ to the less fortunate children in Berbice

– new NGO out to serve and mould kids in need

Agroup of past and present students of both the Turkeyen and Tain campuses of the University of Guyana, as well as members of the business community in Berbice have banned together to bring hope to less fortunate children of the Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) region.

Under the name “Project Hope”, the objective of this group is to work closely with the various children’s homes and care centres in Region Six to ensure that the rights and interests of the children in these institutions are safe guarded. Together, the members of Project Hope have been providing the basic needs, such as food and clothing to the various orphanages and shelters. Currently, the members are attached to the various children’s homes across Region Six as part of their ongoing in-house tutoring sessions. These tutoring sessions began in March 2015 and are being done at the Bal Nivas Shelter for Abused Children and at the Caanan Home in Port Mourant; Camal Home in Albion and the Children of the Promised Land Home in Smythfield,

New Amsterdam. Time is also spent organising recreational activities for these homes, which the members also participate in.

Over the past seven months, Project Hope has been actively making a difference in the lives of these children in Berbice, with the distribution of food items to the Camal and Canaan homes, as well as the Children of the Promised Land Home; all with assistance from Enforcer’s Care of the United States of America. During the Easter holidays, the group also circulated kites to the various homes.

Project Hope collaborated with the US Peace Corps in a painting activity at the St Therese’s Primary School on May 30 and with GULDA on July 26, when a fun day for the children of the various homes was held at the Rose Hall Estate Community Centre, East Canje.

Commencing on August 23rd, the group initiated a back to school programme which was sponsored by Enforcers Care and is currently ongoing. To date, the group has distributed schoolbags, books and sta-

tionary, not only to the children of the various homes but also to the less fortunate in communities across Region Six. To conclude activities for 2015, the group is planning to hold a toy drive during the Christmas holidays.

With the idea of giving “small things with great love”, Project Hope was birthed after a group of young adults from various communities across Region Six met one afternoon in January with a common goal; to help the less fortunate children of the region. As of February 20, the group has been working in a formal partnership with The Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) and is currently in the process of being legally registered. To date the group has completed two workshops with the RCC.

Project Hope is a nonprofit, non-governmental organisation with no political affiliation, carrying a mission statement the members live by – “To create a positive impact on the less fortunate by providing them with basic necessities and support for emotional and academic needs.”

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

The

September 11 – 15:40h-17:10h and Saturday, September 12 – 16:10h-17:40h

FERRY SCHEDULE

WEATHER TODAY

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2015

LGE not possible for 2015 – GECOM Govt blunders again

– outstanding legal lacunae need to be addressed

ollowing the passage of the Local Government Amendment Bill in the National Assembly on Thursday last, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), based on its calculations, estimated that the Local Government Elections (LGE) would not be held anytime in 2015 – as was touted by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government.

“Consequent upon the passage of the Bill by Parliament, the preparations for, and the prerequisite conduct of Claims and Objections leading the finalisation of the Official Register of Voters would take GECOM at least to the end of 2015,” the elections body explained in a press release to the media.

Additionally, GECOM pointed out that there were still some outstanding legal lacunae which needed to be passed by the National Assembly and assented to by President David Granger before it can move ahead with its work.

“In the Bill are a few crucial pieces of legislation that must also be enacted for the elections to be carried out in an efficient manner; for example, the movement of Nomination Day from 21 days to 50 days before Election Day. If this is not done, the existing timeframe would be insufficient for the designing and printing of 585 different ballot papers,” GECOM explained.

Additionally, GECOM noted that other aspects needed to be passed to clear the way for the extraction of the Preliminary List of Voters from the National Register of Registrants (NRR), instead of from the 1992 Official List of Electors as is currently provided for in law.

It remains uncertain the reason why these amendments were not acted upon by the Government, given the fact that GECOM had raised these concerns with the Administration long before now.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had pointed out that of the 26 amendments in the Bill, several did not originate in GECOM. GECOM had submitted 19 pieces of legislation that needed to be amended before it could move ahead with its

preparations for the long overdue elections.

Efforts to contact Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan proved futile.

Meanwhile, during a meeting with the international community, GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally assured that the Commission would commence the implementation of its Work Plan for the conduct of LGE immediately after the outstanding lacunae were addressed.

Despite the hold-up, GECOM said that the Commission’s Secretariat had already gone ahead with the training and selection of permanent and temporary staff to man the offices where the Claims and Objections exercise would be conducted within the respective Local Authorities; identification of

locations for the establishment of offices for Electoral Registrars and Assistant Electoral Registrars and the identification of persons to be trained and appointed to work as Returning Officers, Deputy Returning Officers, Clerks to the Returning Officers and Election Day Staff with specific reference to the conduct of Local Government Elections. The meeting was attended by Head of Political, Press and Information of the European Union in Guyana, Derek Lambe; United States Embassy Chargé d’ Affaires Bryan Hunt; British High Commissioner Gregory Quinn; Canadian High Commissioner Pierre Giroux; Deputy Chief Election Officer (DCEO) Vishnu Persaud and GECOM’s Legal Officer Juanita Barker.

Editor(ag): Michael Younge

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Tourism and the airline industry

Earlier this week, Public Infrastructure Minister, David Patterson, announced that in addition to the existing airlines servicing the Guyana route, the Government is exploring the option of seeking to have additional airlines operate here. While this is not the first time that Guyanese citizens are being promised more competition in the airline industry, it is good to know that the present Administration also considers this an issue which needs to be kept on the front burner.

There have been many calls previously for systems to be put in place that would allow more competition in the airline industry. To its credit, the previous Government was successful in attracting a few airlines which had begun offering lower airfares to persons travelling to Caribbean and North American destinations, but some of the carriers ended up failing due to various reasons. A few have remained in the market and are doing reasonably well in terms of the level of fares and the quality of services being offered. However, many still consider the present fares too high when compared to other markets in the region. Added to this is that the number of carriers operating this route is still not enough to accommodate the increasing number of persons traveling, hence, there is need to attract more reputable airlines to join the market here; which will hopefully result in better fares and improved services.

No doubt there are many Guyanese who are anxious to return home, and many other visitors who are eager to come here and explore the many wonders, but they are unable to do so due to uncompetitive airfares and packages. We strongly believe that Guyana has the potential to become a destination of choice for many tourists looking to experience something new and different, and perhaps with the right policy decisions made, this could become a reality in the near future.

In addition to the high level of investments being made into the tourism sector, over the past five year or so, this country has been written and talked about by major tourism stakeholders. But many would agree that Guyana’s tourism sector has not really taken off the way it should; and perhaps there are several factors being responsible for this, among them the uncompetitive airline industry.

Guyana could rake in huge sums of foreign currency from tourism as the potential is evident. But for this to happen, the effective policy decisions accompanied with the necessary investments would have to be made. Every related sector will need to get on board and work collaboratively by pooling both their financial and human resources with the aim of raising the bar like the other countries in the region have done.

In addition to having additional air carriers servicing this route, perhaps the time is right for the authorities to explore establishing a national airline which Guyanese could identify with. Both the PPP/C and APNU/AFC Administrations had expressed a desire to establish a national airline, but so far nothing concrete was done to match the talk. The time has come for the authorities to revisit this issue.

We had suggested before that one option worth exploring is through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) where the Government and the private sector could partner in investing in the venture. But with the current Berbice Bridge fiasco where the Government is imposing its wishes on the company’s Board to have reduced fares, the private sector may be hesitant of going this route. If it continues in this fashion, the new Government may find it a huge challenge to attract private investors for such undertakings in the future.

That said, what we know for sure is that competitive airfares and tourist packages will serve as a major boost to Guyana’s tourism sector. It is expected that 2016 will be a “peak year” for travel to Guyana, especially since the country will be commemorating its 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. It is hoped that by then the relevant stakeholders will put systems in place that would result in Guyanese and other visitors enjoying the benefits of a more competitive airline industry.

The Rickey Singh column censored by Nagamootoo

Dear Editor,

The Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has decided to pursue a plan of action to ensure what it deems “proper respect” for the rules and decorum of parliament in view of claimed “recurring violations” by some government MPs, among them senior cabinet ministers, including Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo.

Accordingly, this columnist has learnt that a letter would soon be forwarded—possibly later this week—to the Speaker of Parliament, Dr Barton Scotland, expressing growing concerns over recurring “parliamentary abuses” by Nagamootoo and others.

The specific and immediate case involving Minister Nagamootoo relates to his recent passionate verbal outburst against former two-term President of Guyana and current Opposition Leader, Dr Bharat Jagdeo, who he had castigated in parliament as a ”pompous, arrogant coolie..”

Of course, irrespective of ethnicity and nationality citizens across our Caribbean region are quite aware of the depth of abuse residing in the accusation of being deemed a “coolie”,or its derogatory equivalent “nigger”, when hurled at a citizen of African descent.

The big surprise was that the first-time but quite learned Speaker Scotland did not imme-

diately, or since, reprimand Prime Minister Nagamootoo for such a slanderous verbal blast in violation of the norms of civilised parliamentary debates.

As now generally recalled, with the formation of the current PNCled coalition, there was a surprising ‘downsizing’ of the constitutional authority and influence of minister Nagamootoo as Prime Minister which, currently stand, as noted earlier, in sharp contrast to what had prevailed under the presidencies of both Burnham and Hoyte and, of course, the general functions of a CARICOM Prime Minister.

Now, with the Granger-led coalition and the departure of former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds from successive PPPC-administrations over some 23 years, the sharp contrast in portfolio responsibilities and influence with which Minister Nagamootoo is identified as Prime Minister, reflects quite an amazing political downsizing in the history of cabinet-style government in Guyana-if not the entire Caribbean Community.

While the declared results of the May 11 general elections that brought into power a coalition government led by the dominant Peo-ples National Congress and the minority Alliance for Change, remain an issue to be determined in an elections petition, currently before the country’s Chief

Justice, the focus of much media/public attention pertains to recurring governance challenges that need to be addressed.

It would be recalled that ahead of the formation of the coalition administration, the AFC was engaged in tense negotiations with the PNCdominated APNU to determine the composition and powers of the new government under the presidency of Mr Granger.

The core features of what emerged as a socalled ‘Cummingsburg Accord, (named after the venue of the agreement), had provided for the traditional enormous powers of an Executive President as Head of State as well as the constitutional responsibilities allotted to the Prime Minister--normally number two person in the Guyana cabinet.

Warm embraces, cheerful handshakes and back-slapping marked conclusion of the tense power-sharing negotiations (as reflected in the Cummingsbird Accord) for President Granger’s first coalition administration ahead of the ceremonial opening of the new par-liament where the coalition has a singleseat majority against the PPPCP that remains the single largest party (controlling 49 percent of the electorate).

To the surprise of supporting “comrades” and “friends”,Nagamootoo-a former journalist and long standing Central Committee member of the

PPP from, which he had defected in parliament along with Mr Ramjattn,--was left to be surprised about his prom-ised “powers” and “responsibilities” as Prime Minister. The reality was a mirage. For starters, he id simply allotted portfolio responsibilities as Minister responsible for Information with oversight pertaining to the Government Information Agency and other stateowned/operated communication agencies---Ironically, portfolios he held way back in 1992 when he was became an elected PPP parliamentarian. But ‘comrade’ Moses wanted--as he perhaps unwisely made public, in the spirit of the so-called ‘Cummingsburg Accord”--empowerment for “domestic national affairs, including chairing of cabinet meetings; making recommendations for ministerial ap-pointments, as well as offering recommendations for ministries to be created by the President.

Alas, Mr Granger is yet to make this a constitutional reality for Mr Nagamootoo. Currently the President seems busily engaged in the further constitutional empowerment of his former army colleague, ex-GDF colonel Joseph Harmon, leaving no doubt about the reality of a two-some power status quo—he and ‘comrade’ Joe!

Ricky Singh Caribbean Journalist

The coalition Government should take inspiration from Jagdeo

Dear Editor,

This letter is in regard to the above article on the problems surrounding the Berbice River Bridge Toll.

The Berbice Bridge is a great development for the country and the people of Guyana. The fares were not increased for six years and this helped the people. If the APNU coalition Government is honourable, as it wants people to think, then it will find solutions to problems, instead of deceiving the people who know very well, that the Berbice Bridge was devel-

oped by the PPP/C administration.

The APNU/AFC coalition has been in office for almost four months during which it has done nothing significantly positive. It doesn’t seem to know what it means to have the opportunity to build a project in Guyana and what it involves to take on such a task under difficult circumstances. As such, the Government doesn’t respect what was achieved by the previous administration, and its vision is clouded by vendetta against the

development and accomplishment of the pas PPP/C Government.

The ABC countries should take note of the actions of this coalition Government which they supported during the last elections. For, how can such actions promote development in any country or society? The coalition is seemingly incapable of upholding and supporting the development that was established before them.

Opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo, has con-

tributed a vision of energy, foresight, wisdom, resourcefulness, combined with other qualities which enabled such development processes. The coalition Government should learn from and take inspiration from him.

It seems as though the APNU-led coalition Government is contributing more to the creation of more problems and division in the country, rather than development.

Sincerely, Stan

Law

When citizens no longer have faith in the Police

Dear Editor, I wish to speak on matter of urgent national attention to emphasise to our new leaders why the restructuring of the Guyana Police Force is of vital national importance for the health and well being of our beloved country.

While many of us are alarmed by the daily crime situation, an equally dangerous injustice is being perpetrated on Guyanese citizens by the continued dismal, inept, and corrupt police force in many parts of the country.

Some efforts have been made by our excellent Public Security Minister to improve the efficiency and negative stigma of the force, but much more needs to be accomplished before we can undo decades of mismanagement and bad hiring practices to bring about the change we so desire.

Editor, it is my opinion

Force

that when the victims of criminal and abusive behavior are unable to receive adequate representation from the State through the policing force then what we have is a conundrum in our society that then manifests into more moral and societal breakdown as seen today. Survival instincts for citizens kick in and many are forced to take matters into their own hand or act out in sometimes violent ways.

Take for example my own frustration in trying to obtain the assistance of the Vigilance Police Force to tackle the crime of extreme noise nuisance in the area of Lusigan, E.C.D.

Due to non-responsiveness of this station to assist residents in the area when complaints are made, I am now forced to take matters into my own hand and confront perpetrators who are often times neighbours, which can result into con-

frontational and dangerous episodes with those who demonstrate absolute disregard for others and the law with threats and verbal cuss-downs.

This example is only a minor one compared to other much more serious grievances citizens of this country face and like myself many will typically end up with nothing but frustration and despair in getting the police to take action.

My experience with the policing force in Guyana has led me to conclude that it is an organisation plagued with “some” of the most uncaring and unsympathetic people in uniform.

Many Guyanese consequentially give up and turn a blind eye to the incessant lawlessness which then leads to more tuning out of every day matters affecting their country.

This contributes to many Guyanese wanting to leave

these shores in search of a better society, which negatively affects our country which has limited human and intellectual resources.

I believe that the best way to reverse this trend is by implementing swift policy changes in policing culture of this country, through the training, equipping and remuneration of police officers. Inefficient and corrupt officers should be removed.

Residents must now feel that the police force is one their side and not a hindrance to justice and equality.

Now more than ever, we need a police force that is competent and capable, well trained with a much needed and functional 911 emergency system to counteract the surge in crime and despondency felt by many decent and law abiding Guyanese.

Sincerely,

D. Persaud

War drums in the USA

Dear Editor,

The Republican Candidate Donald Trump is on the warpath against illegal immigrants, Spanish speaking people, drug dealers, those who overstay their visa visits, back tracking organisations, anchor babies and their mothers. He pledged to deport all the illegals when elected as the President of the USA.

Governor Christie of

New Jersey, another presidential candidate, proposed to mark, tattoo all visa carrying visitors to the USA. He will ask the Fed-X organization to tag these people as they are doing with their parcels. Christie should be reminded that Hitler and the Germans tagged Jews, Gypsies and Communists during the Second World War before sending them to the gas chambers.

We in British Guiana and later Guyana have already had a taste of the American and CIA capabilities to start a war and to sustain the killings of innocent people. We have also experienced how the USA and CIA participated in the rigging of elections. What the two Republican candidates are proposing will be of no surprise to the majority of Guyanese.

The attack on mothers and their babies is most aggravated. A mother would go at great lengths to protect her baby and societies and Governments should give all support. Labeling them “anchor babies” is unacceptable especially by the proposed next President of the USA.

Sincerely,

Dyal Singh

Aishalton SubDistrict Hospital in dire need of a Dentist

Dear Editor, The Aishalton SubDistrict Hospital in the South Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakatuUpper Essequibo), is urgently in need of a Dentist. The seven villages that comprise the sub-district are calling on the Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, to dispatch a Dentist at the Aishalton Hospital as soon as possible.

It is unfair for village residents to have to travel long distances from Achiwib, Parabara, Karaudanau,

Awarenawau, Shea and Maruranau to the Aishalton Hospital to seek the services of a Dentist, only to be told that “there is no Dentist”. This has been happening for four months now and the residents are fed-up of using pain killers. This also does not speak well for a SubDistrict Hospital in the hinterland. It is our hope that the Public Health Minister can bring some relief to the residents of the South Rupununi.

Yours faithfully, Keith James

The Government’s empty promises

Dear Editor, The ruling APNU/ AFC coalition campaigned throughout the election period and made a whole host of promises to the people of Guyana which they promised to deliver within 100 days. 100 days has passed by and most of the promises they made to us Guyanese were not fulfilled.

The APNU/AFC claims that Guyana is currently bankrupt and yet we have a whopping $221 billion budget.

The ruling party is only trying to put a shield over the eyes of the innocent people by attempting to make us all believe that we live in a poor low-graded bankrupted country. But that’s not true. Guyana is a developing third world country which has the ability of becoming the Singapore of the South America, but no under this administration.

If Guyana is bankrupt, then where did Mr David Granger get millions of dollars to spend on his grand inauguration celebrations held at the National Stadium? Guyana is not bankrupt. Why would the Granger administration make such a declaration? What will foreign investors think when they hear the President of Guyana announce that Guyana is bankrupt and has no money in its treasury? Investments will stop and then Guyana will indeed go bankrupt.

Also, they gave us a meager salary increase, which

will make no difference in our lives.

We hear Ms Simona Broomes talking so much about her concerns for the youngsters of this country and that she will stop violence against women and children.

Also, under the David Granger Administration, Guyana has seen a whopping increase of crime by over 10 per cent. Is this the good life Mr Granger has promised Guyanese?

Guyana is a country that can be the richest of all but it all depends on the intentions of its ruler.

Yours truly, Rayan Sattaur

Page Foundation

– we’re seeing a surge in girls taking the initiative with guys at younger and younger ages, and aggressively attempting to lure them into sexual activity.

BY DENNIS RAINEY

One of my primary responsibilities as the father of four daughters was to help protect them from losing their innocence, especially as they approached the adolescent years. As part of this effort, I met and talked with nearly every young man who wanted to go out with my girls. I asked specific questions and challenged these young men to a high standard of purity.

These experiences led to my book Interviewing Your Daughter’s Date, which was published in 2007. I received a lot of positive feedback from appreciative dads, but I also got something that I didn’t expect. Quite a few parents contacted me to say, “I really appreciate the helpful advice for raising daughters, but we really need something to help our sons deal with aggressive girls in this sexually-saturated culture.”

Read this mother’s frustration:

“I have a very outgoing, charming, attractive 15-year-old son. I have literally been chasing the girls away from the door ever since the seventh grade. The phone calls, identified by caller ID, were left for the answering machine to answer. The aggressiveness and promiscuity of young girls nowadays is beyond words. Their dress is so alluring and inviting to a young man, what’s a guy to do? Moreover, what’s a mom to do?”

Another mother wrote after

hearing a broadcast on my book:

“After listening to your “Interviewing Your Daughter’s Date” program today, I’m wondering if you have been on a high school or junior high campus recently. While I agree with your points today, I have a seventh grade son. Let me tell you that the girls are relentless. So aggressive. He’s at a Christian school, and this is a problem. I can only imagine what it may be like elsewhere. Please address this issue.”

Back when I was growing up, there were some girls who were called “boy crazy,” but very few were as forward and aggressive as what we’re seeing today. Based on my conversation with parents, and what I’ve seen through research on the internet, I think parents are

facing some serious challenges. We’re seeing more girls taking the initiative with guys at younger and younger ages, and aggressively attempting to lure them into sexual activity. As I’ve done research on the issue, parents are telling me about groups of girls getting together and targeting young men.

Of course, I’m not talking about all young ladies. But the situation has changed enough in recent years that we need to ask: How can we prepare our teenage sons for dealing with the attention and temptation being thrown at them by some sexually aggressive girls?

What in the world is happening? What is going on in the hearts of some young girls that causes them to be so assertive? I think

there are several reasons for what we are seeing:

First, the culture is supporting it. Movies, television shows, commercials, magazines, books … they all glamorize sex and intimacy and the right of young women to go after whatever it is they think will make them happy.

Second, we have a whole generation of young men who are confused in their own sexual identity. Are they supposed to be sensitive or aggressive? Leaders or helpers?

Many young men today are not being taught how to treat a young lady with nobility, dignity, and respect. Many are growing up without a father or male figure to provide guidance. As a result, some of these young men have no idea how they should expect to be treated by a real young lady.

Third, the breakdown of the family has resulted in a whole generation of daughters who have been abandoned. And in the absence of a healthy, emotional attachment to their fathers and mothers, they’re trying to fill their emotional gas tanks with the opposite sex.

Finally, there’s little or no preparation for adolescence occurring among parents of preteens or early teens. This may be the core problem. When you ask parents of preteens how many of them would like their children to have the same experience they had in adolescence, there aren’t many hands that go up. But those same par-

ents often become increasingly detached as their children move into the adolescent years.

Teenagers need training to understand the culture, peer pressure, what’s happening in them with their hormones, and what’s happening with the opposite sex. That’s why we have resources like Passport2Purity®—to help parents ground their children in the Scripture that anchors their hearts to withstand the winds of culture and peer pressure.

Protecting your boys

There are six assumptions you need to make in training and educating your sons in how to handle aggressive girls:

Assumption 1: Young boys are clueless to a lot of what is going on around them. They need to be prepared for the reality of today’s world, and this preparation needs to start while they are still boys. This is why I’d suggest that mothers and fathers talk with their 10to 12-year-old sons about how they relate to the opposite sex before they face the temptation. There’s a much greater probability of success if you can have these conversations before the hormones hit.

Assumption 2: Aggressive girls will likely come into your son’s life. The problem is that most parents won’t know it, because teenage boys don’t talk about anything. But it could be taking place in your son’s life and he’s just not letting you know, so you have to pursue him in the process.

Assumption 3: You, as a parent, need a proactive plan. That plan will involve fathers and sons, but …

Assumption 4: Moms, that plan needs to involve you. You know how girls think and you can help your son understand girls in ways that a father can’t.

Assumption 5: With a son, this instruction, teaching, and call to accountability doesn’t end with the adolescent years. It continues on into adulthood. (And in my opinion, it doesn’t stop after they get married.) Why? Because there are women who are still preying upon men who are married, and every man needs an older man in his life who is asking him “Remember those conversations we had, Son? You’re a married man now, but that does not exempt you from temptation. How are you doing with that?”

Assumption 6: Your son needs a call to manhood. Ultimately, the call to a young man is to step up and become a noble man, a moral man, a spiritual man, God’s man. You’re going to call your sons as they move through adolescence to step up to maturity and step up to real manhood. And to do that, they need a mother and a father repetitively teaching Scripture and encouraging them as they do take these steps toward maturity. (www. familylife.com)

As local industry wilts Rice farmers to Govt: “Give us the $23B now”

Hundreds protest against Govt’s alleged deception

The $23 billion promised by the David Grangerled A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government to the challenged rice industry is still to be paid, and farmers are at their wits’ end as the situation, for which they were earnestly promised relief, worsens.

Close to 400 rice farmers from across the country flocked the outskirts of the Agriculture Ministry on Thursday, and although they put on a peaceful protest, their cries for help and relief were loud. Farmers travelled from as far as Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and the Upper Corentyne, Berbice Region hoping to send a message to the new Government, that it has a responsibility to keep its promises.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan, when he presented the country’s largest budget ever on August 10, had declared that Government had set aside some $23 billion for the industry, which was already feeling the brunt of Government’s fallout with neighbouring Venezuela, through the PetroCaribe deal. Farmers had begun pleading with Government to work towards the restoration of that deal, which benefited the more than 7000 rice farmers across the country. The farmers are also claiming the promise made by the Government, during its time on the campaign trail, that it would make

available payments of up to $9000 per bag of paddy.

But those promises, according to the farmers, were a mere sham, as Government, up until now, cannot say where the money is, or when it will be paid.

Hurting

A week into the new crop, farmers are hurting, at least that is what they expressed while speaking with this publication before peacefully marching around the Ministry, encircling the Ministry of the Presidency as well. The prices farmers are receiving per paddy vary across the country. According to them, they are now being offered as low as $800 per bag and at the most $1900, in some regions.

“We are not begging for $7000 and $8000, give us what we were receiving last crop, that’s all we want,” a West Coast Demerara farmer identified as Kardial told Guyana Times

“We need $4000 per bag paddy, because we have these problems with fertilisers and drugs. We presently have things with the bank and those things ; $2000 per bag cannot do anything for us. And if we make this rice industry fall and the sugar industry fall, it means all of us without counting colours or races, all of us will punish in this country,” said Ramchand, a farmer from the West Coast.

He said the last crop farm-

ers in his region were receiving $3000 -$3500 per bag paddy, and even with that amount, there were tremendous difficulties.

Another farmer from Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Narvin Ramdin said “the $1900 and $1800 we receiving cannot compensate us. One plot rice cost about one million dollars and the bank coming and take everything you have.

lem added to this. We sell rice over five months ago and we cannot get our monies as yet. We hear that they have given rice farmers and millers, but I want them to come see that the rice millers pay us our money.”

He said since last month he owes some $2million on his truck and was fearful that it could be taken away.

Representing the farmers

$2400 per bag paddy.”

He said this was most ridiculous since the cost of production per bag paddy is $3000 and the farmers were getting $2000. As such, he said Government must intervene to save the rice industry; the main pillar of the economy.

Grim

While many of the farm-

Now you know long time you know your children would cry, now a papa a cry more than the children. The farmers are frustrated.”

He said if Government could give the farmers at least $3000 that should be able to get them back on their feet.

Another Yakusari, Black Bush Polder farmer, Lionel Soman told Guyana Times that added to the issue of low paddy prices is the non-payment of monies from last crop.

“We have another prob-

from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), Ramlagan Singh said Government should seek to renew the Petro Caribe deal, which he said has helped him and the thousands of farmers over the last 10 years.

“We are asking them to go back and renegotiate the deal so that we could get better prices for our paddy. Added to that many of the millers have not paid the farmers in Region Six, and now this coming crop, the farmers are getting now an average between $1500 to

ers shouted in unison for better conditions, others silently held their placards, sending a grim message to Government for it to intervene, or suffer the consequences.

There were talks that the farmers, who may not gather in such a capacity at any one time for now, will carry out their protests in their respective region, an activity they hope to continue until Government listens to their cries.

Rice Producers Association

(RPA) General Secretary Dharmkumar Seeraj said the new Administration has duped the hapless farmers. He said his enquiries of government’s promised $23 billion have come up empty as neither the Minister of Agriculture or the Minister of Finance who made the announcement could give any information.

Seeraj said the industry under the current Administration was bound to suffer blows as no attempt was being made to arrest the situation, which is leaving the many farmers. He added that while Government has stepped in for an equally important industry – the mining sector, the same attention should be paid to the rice industry.

“Rice over the years has been the largest earner of foreign exchange for this country. It is the best vehicle for rural development…. Rice has been pumping up this economy. Now if you are going to turn a blind eye to your largest earner, then you don’t have the interest of the country at heart, if you are going to concentrate on a few miners and leave out your largest foreign exchange earner, you shooting yourself in the foot,” he said. He said right now the only way to address this issue was for Government to find the money that was promised to the farmers.

friday, september 11, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Woman busted at Ogle Airport with 4.1kg of marijuana

AGuyanese woman was on Thursday morning nabbed at the Ogle International Airport by members of the Police Narcotics Branch with a quantity of marijuana in her luggage.

Police were alerted that something was amiss when the woman was seen sweating profusely while at the check-in counter, sources revealed. She was approached by ranks who asked to search her luggage. During the search, a quantity of seeds, leaves

and stems were discovered in several parcels. She was told of the offence, cautioned and arrested. The marijuana was weighed in her presence and turned out to be 4.1 kilograms.

She is expected to be charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Only last week, Shanda Nichols of Albouystown, Georgetown was busted by members of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) with 500 grams of cocaine as she was about to board a LIAT flight to

Barbados.

According to reports, the passenger had a portion of the cocaine strapped to her girdle, while another portion was in her genitalia.

Nichols was taken into custody and patted down after she was seen acting in a suspicious manner. During the pat-down, the cocaine was found and she was immediately arrested and taken to the CANU headquarters where the illegal substance was weighed.

Nichols reportedly told

drug enforcement officers that she was desperate to make fast money since her only daughter had a heart complication and was in need of urgent surgery. She claimed that she worked to make ends meet, but since her threeyear-old daughter was diagnosed with the heart complication, she knew that she had to take drastic measures to make money so that her daughter could be treated. She was charged and remanded to prison.

Man remanded on break and enter charge

A40-year-old cook was on Thursday remanded to prison after he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with breaking into a woman’s house and stealing several items, including her underwear.

Mark Peters, who resides at 40 DaSilva Street, Newtown, Georgetown,

and works as a cook in the interior, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on Monday, September 7, at Carmichael Street, Georgetown he broke and entered the dwelling house of the Virtual Complainant (VC), Susan Hailey and stole a hair blow dryer valued $20,000, a curling iron valued $5000, a gas bottle valued $10,000, a pair of women’s underwear valued $2000, an Avon

Bath and Body set valued $16,000, six pieces of clothing valued $16,000, a pair of slippers valued $4000, a wallet valued $1000, a pair of sunglasses valued $2000 and a helmet valued at $3000; all to a total value of $71,000 and the property of the VC.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones told the court that after the VC discovered the defendant in her house, she raised an

Months after sacking professionals

alarm and the defendant was quickly apprehended. He was then taken into Police custody and the charges were laid against him. Corporal Jones told the court that the investigation is yet to be completed, and as such, requested adequate time to do so. The Prosecutor objected to bail and the Magistrate remanded the defendant to prison until September 16 when he is due to return.

Govt’s E-Governance Project still in limbo

Months after sacking Head of the E-Governance Project, Alexei Ramotar, the new David Granger Administration is yet to decide on the way forward for the initiative, which includes the laying of fibreoptic cable from Guyana to Brazil Governance and Patrimony Minister Raphael Trotman, when questioned by Guyana Times on the project on Wednesday, said: “As far as I know, that remains under active consideration. What was performing in the past, I can assure you, has been brought to an end, but we are awaiting a final report and recommendation on how to proceed.”

Since Ramotar’s sacking back in July, the Project has been at a standstill while Government reportedly undertook an investigation into its operations.

Only last month, Government also took the Project away from local firm Dax Contracting Services, which was tasked with rehabilitating and maintaining the fibreoptic cable.

Despite being one of the previous Government’s critics on the E-Governance Project while in Opposition, the new Government has decided to move ahead with the initiative.

At an earlier post-Cabinet briefing, Minister of State Joseph Harmon said the advice to “cut its loss” was given by the Head of the Unit, Ramotar, to the previous Administration, and has nothing to do with what the current Government was doing.

At the time, and according to Ramotar, based on information from sources in Venezuela, the repairs to the controversial fibre-optic cable project would cost in the vicinity of US$20 million, and, therefore, was not feasible. Ramotar recently told Harmon during a visit to the Unit’s Duke and Barrack Streets office that the cable had suffered about 40 per cent damage. This was some four years after an agreement was signed between

Guyana and Brazil for the stringing of a fibre-optic cable.

Harmon then requested “information from the Unit on the E-Government Project, and all of its subsidiary activities” so that the present Government could review it.

Harmon also added that Ramotar was “still employed by the State, and so must produce all documents on the state of connectivity on other projects – towers, Internet, etc”. He said further that Ramotar advised him that “Internet connectivity is at a very advanced stage”.

The Minister elaborated that the overall purpose of E-Governance in Guyana is that the Government is aiming to better position itself to equip the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to fight crime and help schools and Ministries to perform their duties effectively.

He stated that Government was not about “competing with service providers like Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) and Digicel, but to connect communities via hubs, with the Internet”.

Eyew tness

Business sense...

...in Berbice

All of you dear readers just have to give a "hat tip" to this Subnath fella, who's the President of the Upper Berbice Chamber of Commerce. Now "Upper Berbice" is the part closest to Suriname. In just one interview in the Stabber to solicit his opinion on the Berbice Bridge, he's managed to illustrate why Berbice has remained mired in despair and why they deserve Ramaya as their REO.

Subnath believes competition will be good for the Bridge. So far, so good. And how'd he stimulate "competition"? Simple: the Government should build a new bridge across the Berbice River!! Now why didn't anyone think of that before? The Government, which couldn't find money to lower VAT by even 1% - and please all the people of Guyana - would just dip into that overflowing Consolidated Funds for a measly $10B or so and throw up another Bridge just to show that mean, old BBCI!

But hold it...the GOVERNMENT doesn't have to find the money to build the NEW Subnath Bridge. It can just round up willing and savvy Berbice businessmen like Subnath, who'll lend them the money AT LITTLE OR NO INTEREST so that the Bridge can charge nominal tolls like the Demerara Bridge. As Subnath implied, those Georgetown bankers and owners were just too greedy! Within days of any proposal to build another Berbice Bridge, the offer will be oversubscribed. Subnath, of course, can be placed in charge of the new Public/ Private venture since he'll plunk in a billion or two.

But Subnath wasn't done with that idea...he was full of them. He also couldn't understand why if the Bridge wasn't generating enough income, the owners didn't sit down with the Banks and renegotiate the terms of their loans. Evidently he does it all the time. But your Eyewitness is puzzled: wasn't the BBCI's offer to have the Bridge's Bankers stretch out the loan repayment period any different from what Subnath’s banker does for him?!

Another refreshing suggestion from Subnath - in the interest of "transparency", which he believes in - is for the BBCI to reveal the terms of their contract to Berbicians. But BBCI's contract was with the Government, no? Hasn't the government released all the terms already? But Subnath doesn't have to go to such lengths to have low, or no tolls. With the NIS and NICIL having 4 Directors on the 6-member BBCI Board (now that the two directors from NGPC and QA have resigned), the Government can do whatever it wants on the Bridge!

Finally, your Eyewitness wonders whether the transparent-loving Subnath shows his accounts to Berbicians advertising on his Ch19 TV station.

...in Georgetown

Now don't think this new business sense only abounds in Berbice. Georgetown in full of it also. After breaking down the vendors stalls in Bourda, the new City Clerk Royston King (who's talking fat again, now that Sooba's gone) declared that the City Council received a "mandate from the President" and he "will work to fulfill regardless of the degrees of difficulties faced.”

But hold it! Wasn't "Executive interference" exactly what King and his boss Green were complaining about when a simple Minister of the Executive tried to work through Sooba's? Now you have the Big Enchilada of the Central Executive himself giving mandates and suddenly he confer "mandates" to the City Council?? Ahhh...how things change!

But beyond that bout of hypocrisy, there's the serious abuse of the vendors. Shouldn't the government regularise these vendors, who've demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit needed for business?

Enough of using the vendors as political cannon fodder!

... and nonsense

Berbicians had a grouse and the PRIME Minister Nagamootoo rushed over and appointed a Special Representative, with constant contact to funnel their grievances. Georgetown vendors are brutalised from making a living and he just sends them an ex-WICB water boy?

This is sheer racialism!!

People's Power! No Dictator!

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

friday, september 11, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyanese busted at JFK with cocaine in rum

AGuyanese national was nabbed trying to smuggle a ‘rum-andcoke’ drug cocktail in his luggage at the John F Kennedy International Airport on Saturday.

Cleveland Charles arrived in New York aboard a Caribbean Airlines flight from Georgetown, Guyana, and was selected for inspection by Customs and Border Protection Officers.

During the inspection, Customs ranks focused on a bottle of 12-Year-Old El Dorado rum that was inside Charles’ suitcase. Charles told the ranks that he had purchased it at a duty-free shop at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Guyana upon his departure.

Upon closer inspection, a Customs Officer noticed a thick syruplike substance with a strong odour that appeared inconsistent with

rum emanating from the bottle. A test was carried out on the contents of the bottle, and it revealed that the thick substance was cocaine.

Meanwhile, a Guyanese national is among three persons arrested in Greece following a major bust involving cocaine found in a shipment of scrap iron from Guyana.

The names of the suspects have not been released by authorities, but from reports received, the three men were part of a major drug trafficking ring which oversaw the shipment of the cocaine from Guyana.

The more than 27 kilos (60 pounds) of cocaine was found neatly packed and stashed in pieces of scrap iron pipes that were part of the large container of scrap iron.

The bust was made last Friday when the shipment arrived in Greece. The

Greek authorities have indicated that other drug pushers in Guyana were also behind the cocaine shipment. However, the authorities have not named the shipper from Guyana.

The 27.170kg bust was carried out by the antidrug department of Attica’s Security Directorate, in cooperation with the US Drug Enforcement Authority (DEA) office at the US Embassy in Athens, the Office for Combating Economic Crimes and other Police units in Greece.

According to reports out of Greece, “after an extensive Police operation in Aspropyrgos and in the centre of Athens, three members of the organisation were nabbed: a Greek citizen (a well-known model), a Guyanese citizen and a Dutchman, aged respectively 38, 48 and 38”.

AC Technician sentenced to 50 months in prison for causing death by dangerous driving

An AC Technician was on Thursday sentenced to 50 months in prison by Magistrate Judy Latchman after he was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving, in Court Three of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The defendant, Delroy Welford, of at Lot 77 Quamina Road, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara, who struck and killed a mother of four, along the Mocha Public Road, East Bank Demerara, had previously entered a not guilty plea to the charge which read that on November 7, 2014 at Mocha Access Road, Welford drove motor vehicle PPP 9521, in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death

Bullet narrowly misses guard's eye

Asecurity guard attached to the Cummings Lodge Secondary School was on Thursday evening shot near his left eye after a man exited his vehicle and discharged several rounds in an indiscriminate manner.

The man has been identified as Michael Woolfood, 68, of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

According to information received, two men, one of

whom was armed with a cutlass, were involved in an altercation at Industry Crown Dam, ECD, when a man who was driving a motor vehicle exited and discharged several rounds in their direction.

It was after the man drove away that persons in the area heard Woolford screaming in pain. As they went to his aid, they realised that the guard was shot just above his left eye. He was rushed to the Georgetown

Public Hospital where he was admitted.

Guyana Times understands that Woolford has been working at the school for quite some time. His condition, according to the Hospital, is stable.

The two men who were involved in the altercation were also treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital. The men were identified as Vincent Williams, 35, and Doodnauth, 53, both of

Industry Crown Dam.

Residents told this newspaper that the incident occurred about 21:00h. One woman stated that she was in her home when she heard the gunshots and thought it was a robbery, but she later learnt that the security guard at the school was shot.

The Police have since launched an investigation into the incident. No one has yet been arrested.

of Carol Stephens-Dawson, age 44.

Welford was previously released on $250,000 bail for the offence. The court previously heard that on the day in question, the defendant was driving along the Access Road at a fast pace while the Virtual Complainant (VC) was walking along the road’s edge. Welford told the Police that a vehicle was approaching in the opposite direction with bright lights which blinded him, causing him to swerve. In doing so, he hit the woman. The defendant picked up the injured woman and took her to the hospital.

According to information received by Guyana Times, the 44-year-old victim who resided at Barnwell North, Mocha Village, was walking in the middle of the road in the vicinity of the Fourth Bridge when she was struck. Stephens-Dawson

was tossed into the air by the impact of the crash and landed in a nearby trench, this publication was told. Due to poor visibility, since the area is poorly lit with street lamps, it took several minutes to find the woman among the bushes.

She was subsequently rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where she was referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for further medical attention, but died on her way to the medical institution. She reportedly sustained injuries to the head and several broken bones.

The Magistrate on Thursday found Welford guilty of the charge after she told him that based on the evidence, it is clear that he drove the vehicle in a manner dangerous to the public, resulting in the death of the deceased. As such,the defendant was sentenced to 50 months in prison.

Tucville residents complain about dilapidated bridges

– no response given by M&CC

Residents of the Tucville, Georgetown, expressed their disgust over the deplorable conditions of the main access bridge linking their community and Guyhoc Park. In an interview with Guyana Times, several residents expressed their displeasure over the current state of the bridge. One resident who wished to be unnamed, said “the bridge has been

in this condition for a number of years and the bridge possess a serious threat to senior citizens and small children. In fact, just before school opened, a lil girl fell in the trench and had to be saved”.

The access bridge is in close proximity to the Tucville Primary and Secondary schools and the St Christopher Nursery; hence it is used daily by various persons to get to

and from school and work.

A resident highlighted the fact that when it rains, the area is totally impassable, while another resident alleged that reports were made to the Mayor and City Council but no response was given. The resident displayed a letter and supporting estimates concerning to the rebuilding of the bridge which were sent to the M&CC but to no avail.

Another resident who stated his name as Jerome

(only name given) said “we just want the relevant authorities to help us out by fixing the bridge, as it (is) very difficult for persons to traverse that area, especially at nights.” Jerome went on to say that efforts were made to contact the Public Infrastructure Ministry and the Ministry of Communities but no response was given by either of these two ministries.

Only recently the Government held consultation in East La

Penitence about community upgrades and youth empowerment. The consultation was spearheaded by Minister within the Social Protection Ministry Simona Bromes, with participation from Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkhan and Minister within the Public Infrastructure Ministry Annette Ferguson. The consultations stemmed from the notion of Government’s interven-

tion to increase the living standards of residents and also to provide the community with recreational facilities.

The Tucville/Guyhoc Park communities are known to be avid supporters of the current Administration, and some residents feel a sense of abandonment by Government, since serious issues such as these are not addressed by those in authority.

World Suicide Prevention Day

Guyanese unite to save lives …as Ministry launches Suicide Prevention Strategy

Recognising the urgent need for a more aggressive and impactful approach to tackling the prevailing spate of suicide in Guyana, various stakeholders came together on World Suicide Prevention Day for the launch of Guyana’s longawaited suicide prevention strategy.

Government, NonGovernmental, corporate and other entities flocked the Woodbine Room of the Cara Lodge on Wednesday to mark the Day dedicated to anti-suicide efforts and to witness the launch of a host of initiatives to help communities and persons battling depression and suicidal tendencies.

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, in launching the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, said it would be operationalised as soon as next week with visits to outlying regions where the suicide rate is out-of-control.

In a room decorated with smiling bright yellow balloons, every single speaker called on Guyanese to remind their loved ones that they are never alone, that there is always hope even in the darkest of times and that there is always a reason to stay alive.

The highlight of the event was the touching speech delivered by Guyana’s reigning Miss World Guyana Lisa Punch, who shared her story, with the intention of encouraging persons to stay strong and hang on.

“I too felt a critical influx of pain. There was a time when I did not believe in my capabilities or myself. I was chastised for the way I look, the way I sang and the colour

of my skin. I was told time and time again that I wasn’t good enough and that I could not have grown to much…I too felt hopeless...,” she related. She encouraged persons to brace for the rough journey and work towards finding the light at the end of the tunnel.

Punch revealed that her Beauty with a Cause Project was Prevention of Teenage Suicide (POTS) Guyana, group committed to providing support and services to adolescents facing challenges.

National Suicide Prevention Strategy

In his message to the nation on World Suicide Prevention Day, the Public Health Minister underscored the need for everyone to unite and get involved in effective activities- whether outreaches, seminars, workshops, training sessions or counselling, to raise awareness and let people know that suicide was never the answer.

Attorney-at-Law James Bond, speaking on behalf of Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence, acknowledged that suicide was a

critical threat to the development of any nation and underscored the importance of Government’s involvement in the fight against the scourge. Bond stated that suicide affected all – even the brightest of minds, noting that the impact of depression and hurt feelings should never be underestimated. He highlighted that in many instances where there was a successful suicide attempt, the ‘blame and shame’ game comes to the fore – where family members and loved ones battle over who was to be blamed for causing someone to want to take their lives. In most cases, persons eventually blame themselves for not having recognised that their loved ones were hurting. For these reasons, counselling is a much needed element –not just to aid in prevention of suicide cases but to act as support mechanisms for families experiencing intense emotional hurt after losing someone to suicide. Against this backdrop, the Social Protection Ministry pledged its full support in advocating for suicide prevention.

Slowly but surely Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) representative, Dr William AduKrow pointed out that although Guyana has the highest suicide rate in the world, according to the World

Health Organisation (WHO), it must be recognised Guyana was slowly but surely bringing those rates down.

He explained that one must look at the rate of change of each country, and if one looked at Guyana’s, it stood at eight per cent over the last few years. This, he noted, is significant, and as such, he encouraged everyone to continue with their efforts to advocate, raise awareness and reach out to help save lives.

Speeches were also delivered by representatives of The Caribbean Voice, a leading NGO in the fight against suicide, and the US Embassy in Georgetown.

The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) is helping to spearhead the fight against sui-

cide through the provision of the requisite resources to aid in the various projects being embarked upon.

In commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day, celebrated this year under the theme “Preventing Suicide: Reaching Out and Saving Lives”, several activities are scheduled to be undertaken by key stakeholders. These include a press conference for media practitioners where they will be informed of ethical and professional reporting on suicide issues; educational seminars for medical staff and student nurses on suicide prevention; medical education among doctors and other professionals at the Georgetown Public Hospital; and training of officers at the Social Protection Ministry.

PYO celebrates 63 years of service in Guyana

In marking its 63rd anniversary, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) youth arm – the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) vowed to continue the struggle for a better life for all the people in Guyana.

youths of the Party were forced to go underground.

On that note, it pointed out that today with the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government; thousands of young people are dismissed

ously concerned about the APNU/AFC coalition countrywide, is confident that better days will come when the PPP/C returns to office,” it noted.

Moreover, in underscoring its successes and potential, the PYO pointed out

“Ever since the inception, the PYO members were forced to struggle for better life for the people in Guyana and the youths in particular,” a press statement from the organisation read.

The forerunner of the PYO, Pioneer Youth League, was formed in 1952. At that time, the political situation was deemed tough with the removal of the PPP from government. According to the PYO, at that time, the

from their jobs and the coalition is continuing on its widespread witch-hunting, victimisation and discrimination against the youths in the country.

Nonetheless, the youth group is committed to continuing the struggle and is already looking ahead to brighter days for all the young people in Guyana when the PPP/C returns to office.

“The PYO, while seri-

that all the leaders in the PPP/C are products of the organisation.

The PYO added that throughout the year it was organising several seminars and sports events, and would work with its parent body in preparation for the Local Government Elections.

Furthermore, it reaffirmed that “the PYO at 63 will continue to organise and mobilise the youths in Guyana for a better life.”

Father of 4 found murdered in Herstelling home

Afather of four was on Thursday morning found in a pool of blood in the living room of his Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home, with his head bashed in. The discovery was made at about 10:00h by relatives.

The dead man has been identified as Nathan Persaud, age 43, a joiner of Lot 66 Herstelling New Housing Scheme, EBD.

Police in release stated that they are investigating the murder of Persaud while adding that a knife and a hammer, suspected to be the murder weapons, were found at the scene and were taken as evidence.

When Guyana Times visited the home of the dead man on Thursday evening, his relatives were preparing for a wake.

Nathan Persaud Jr, one of the man’s sons told this publication that he left his father at home at about 09:30h on Thursday morning as he was headed out to classes. He stated that while in class at about 11:00h, he received a telephone call from a relative informing him that some-

thing was wrong with his father and that he must return home at once.

The young man stated that as he reached home, he saw a crowd of people in the yard and knew something devastating had occurred. As he walked into the yard, he was told that his father was killed.

At that time, he could not go into the house since

the Police were investigating but as soon as he was given clearance, he saw his father’s body in a pool of blood. He stated that that there was a knife, hammer and several pieces of clay bricks close to his father’s

body which indicated that he was beaten.

As relatives looked around the home, the house was not ransacked but several pieces of items were missing including a laptop computer.

The aggrieved son explained that his father did not have any enemies but people in the neighbourhood, he added, admitted that they heard sounds emanating from the house soon after he left for classes. Neighbours also claimed that they saw someone leaving the yard but did not get a chance to see the person’s face.

He could not say what the motive for his father’s murder was, noting that when he left home, his father was alone. Nathan Jr described his father as a loving man who always takes care of his children. He worked as a joiner in the village for quite some time.

The man leaves to mourn his four sons and siblings. The body is at the Lyken’s Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Berbice Commander warns against staging of robberies – in effort to get gun licences

Berbice Division Acting Commander, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts has warned members of the public that any attempt to gain a firearm licence by staging robberies will not be successful.

The B Division chief made the comments on Wednesday to members of the Berbice Chambers of Commerce and Development Association (BCCDA) at the chamber’s office at Chappell Street, New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

In highlighting what was said to be a recent trend, he told the chamber members, mainly businesspersons, “That will not work. Please advise those persons who are so inclined that it will not work. We are hoping that when there is a robbery the persons cooperate with us, because we can also be hurt.”

The Acting Commander said businesspersons must feel safe to invest and have the confidence that the Police are there and on the ball to look after their interest. “When you

invest in the country, you help the economics of the country and we can be better paid.”

Commander Watts noted that crime was a social problem and urged the business community not to make it into a political issue. “We are committing our lives to ensure that persons are safe and when it comes to fighting crime, we have the full support of the Government as well as the Opposition because in whatever we do, we will want

to know that the Government and the Opposition are backing the Police Force.” He said if the Opposition were not in support of the Police Force, it would not be able to carry out its functions effectively. “We will have a divided society and when you have a divided society, the only persons that benefit are the criminals who try to capitalise on such situations,” Watts added.

Canada warns diplomats not to interfere in its elections –

adopts similar stance to former PPP Government

Taking a firm stance in protecting its political affairs, the Canadian Government issued a warning to the heads of foreign diplomatic missions there to stay away from meddling in the country’s federal election.

In the warning notice, the Government made it clear that is has all rights to ensure that diplomatic and consular personnel do not conduct activities which may be perceived as inducing electors to vote for a particular candidate or prohibiting them from voting for a particular candidate.

Throughout the years, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has been taking similar positions on the issue of diplomatic interference into Guyana’s politics but for the most, has been greeted with opposing remarks for this stance. More recently, the PPP/C strongly objected to the involvement of the US-AID LEAD Project

funded “Vote Like A Boss” education awareness campaigns across the country – notably an act perceived as inducing electors to vote along specific lines.

However, the Party’s objections were greeted with strong disapproval from other sections of society; including the now A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government.

Moreover, it appears that similar events are currently playing out in Canada, with multiple diplomats claiming that the move is “unprecedented and concerning”.

However, the Canadian Government explained that all host countries operate in this fashion.

Consular relations

According to an article published on ipolitics, former Canadian diplomat Colin Robertson noted that governments have engaged in similar activities in the past.

Former New Amsterdam Hospital CEO heads GPHC

… Michael Khan remains on leave

Confirming reports previously published by Guyana Times, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) issued a release stating that the former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of New Amsterdam

Hospital, Alan Johnson has been appointed acting GPHC CEO, while the substantive CEO, Michael Khan has been sent on 100 days’ leave.

According to the press statement, Khan proceeded on administrative leave with effect from September 9.

This newspaper understands, however, that this transition is expected to be permanent and Khan will be eventually dismissed –like most public servants who were sent on lengthy leaves by the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government. Also, this publication learnt that taking over as CEO of the New Amsterdam Hospital will be former Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) President Colin Bynoe.

Based on reports, these developments have raised

Meanwhile, in the warning note issued, the Canadian Government emphasised that under the terms of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations; the diplomatic heads have a duty “not to interfere in the internal affairs of the receiving state”.

It continued to warn that

diplomatic and consular personnel are also forbidden from making any financial contributions to candidates or political events.

Likewise, though perhaps not aggressive enough in their efforts, the PPP/C has always been vocal against diplomatic interference into the political affairs of the country.

Also, earlier this year,

the PPP/C slammed the United Kingdom for its interference in Guyana’s politics. The outgoing British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre raised concerns about the prorogation of Guyana’s Parliament. However, the PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee alluded to the continuous interference of members of the diplomatic community in the affairs

of Guyana; highlighting the unprofessionalism of these actions.

Rohee understood and accepted that it is normal for members of the diplomatic community to become involved in the issues of the country they serve; however he pointed out that some are becoming “more and more involved” in the internal affairs; particularly in relation to the holding of elections.

“It is true also that it is quite understandable for the donor community to be concerned about the elections in Guyana, but I think there is a limit to which they must go with such matters,” Rohee affirmed.

Now that the General Elections are complete here, the entire Western diplomatic community including the Canadian Embassy are deeply involved in arrangements for the holding of Local Government Elections.

some concerns as persons questioned the rationale behind removing the CEO of an institution to act as CEO of another institution instead of allowing the Deputy CEO to act in that position.

Eyebrows were also raised over the competence of the former GTU President to manage an entire medical institution, considering he has no credible experience in the medical field.

Meanwhile, during a recent interview with the Guyana Times, Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton subtly indicated that Government was indeed reviewing the contract of the GPHC CEO.

He explained that Khan had to proceed on leave in order to allow for further investigations to be conducted into the operations of the institution which would consequently determine whether he would remain as CEO or be replaced.

Dr Norton explained that the initial results of the audits recommended that certain individuals proceed on leave to allow for a more indepth audit in the operations.

“When the coalition took over Government, we ran into some difficulties where accounts could not have been made for some departments and the general rule was made where forensic audits were requested…The results of those audits came out –the audit for GPHC came out, those audits recommended that in order for them to continue a more in-depth audit, that person should be asked to go on their administrative leave,” he stated.

Govt election promises fallout

Calls for reduced Essequibo ferry fares

...Berbice Chamber support plight of Essequibians

Recognising the “burdensome” costs also imposed upon Essequibians utilising the ferry system to travel between Georgetown and the Essequibo Coast, President of the Berbice Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC), Rajnauth Ramroop is urging the Government to pay heed to the calls currently being made by the users of the service.

Even while pushing for Government to focus on getting the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) to lower its tolls to relieve the Berbicians, Ramroop admitted that the current fares for the Essequibians were equally expensive.

Supporting his calls is David Sooknauth, an activist representing the views of the Berbicians who stated that the fares being paid by the Essequibians are certainly unreasonable and that Government should find a way to reduce them.

Currently, a ticket on the ferry costs $380 per person and $1140 for a person with an empty vehicle (one-way).

Therefore, a journey back and forth for a vehicle owner would amount to $2280 plus an additional $1900 for five passengers – a total of $4180 to travel from and to Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam). A minibus with 15 passengers would have to pay the $2280 plus $5400 for the passengers for a total of

1 in custody for Better Hope widow’s robbery

O$7680 if they wanted to take a trip to Parika. Businesses pay twice that amount when their vehicles are weighed.

In an invited comment, the BCIC President indicated that Government should also pursue a reduction in the fee for the ferry service for the people of Essequibo.

“Perhaps for a long-term plan, that should be the direction for the Government,” Ramroop said, explaining that the Administration was still new and there was only so much it could get done in a short time.

“If the Government can do something for them at this point in time, I don’t know if it is possible because we have a Government just in office and they would have promised a few things and they would try to deliver on that…No promises were made for a reduction in the crossing for the Essequibians, so…,” he told this newspaper.

On the other hand, Sooknauth explained that the claims of neglect may be too premature, considering that nothing has actually been done for the Berbicians.

Former Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Ramesh Persaud, when contacted on the matter, declined to comment – referring the reporter to the current Chairman of the PSC. However, the PSC Chairman was unavailable

at the time for a comment.

Meanwhile, in crying neglect, the residents of Essequibo had explained to Guyana Times that they decided to push for toll reductions, since the Government is investing bounteous resources into ensuring the Berbicians are relieved of their burden. They contended also that the fees they are paying are far more expensive than those charged for persons who are travelling via the Berbice River Bridge on a daily basis.

Persons traversing between Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on the Berbice Bridge have to pay a toll of $2200 and it was now proposed by the Government for this to be reduced to $1900 (return).

The Essequibo residents argued too that the commuters on the Berbice Bridge could travel across at any time of the day or night – while their circumstances were much more complex.

Furthermore, Region Two Vice Chairman Nandranie Coonjah has supported residents and businesses in their call for the reduction.

“I believe that we in Region Two need equal treatment… lower fares mean business for many persons and I strongly think consideration should be given,” Coonjah said.

Brazil cut to “junk” credit rating by Standard & Poor’s

Brazil has lost its investment-grade credit rating following a downgrade by Standard & Poor’s to “junk” status.

The US rating agency said mounting political turmoil and the difficulties faced by President Dilma Rousseff’s Government in tackling growing debt was behind the decision.

Brazil was awarded an investment-grade rating by S&P

in April 2008, when the country’s economy was on the rise. However, sliding commodity prices and austerity have created a recession.

Rousseff’s left-wing Government had imposed austerity measures in a bid to avoid such a downgrade.

S&P downgraded Brazil – Latin America’s largest economy – sooner than had been expected.

The move – a major set-

back for Finance Minister Joaquim Levy’s attempts to shore up public finances – is likely to rock the Brazilian stock market.

S&P cut Brazil’s rating from BBB-minus to BBplus, which denotes substantial credit risk.

The outlook on the new rating remains negative, which means further downgrades could soon follow.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

ne person is presently in custody assisting with the investigation into the robbery committed on 64-year-old widow Chaandroutie Lawrie of Better Hope, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The resident of Dartmouth, who was employed by the widow to weed her yard on Tuesday, was arrested by Police for questioning.

Lawrie was robbed of some $2 million in cash, jewellery and electrical tools around 02:30h on Wednesday.

During an interview with the media, the widow, who lives alone, related that she was terrorised by a lone bandit with a long knife.

The bandit gained entry via a back window of her two-storey house, after removing some louver window panes.

Still shaken from the entire ordeal, Lawrie, who had never been robbed before, said she was now afraid to live by herself. She related that she heard the dogs barking around 02:30h and got up from her bed to investigate. After she did not notice anything, she went back to her bedroom and it was

when she saw her door was pushed open.

The fearful woman said that a male dressed in a short-sleeve brown shirt with a cap pulled down over

After the bandit collected the bag, he went to another bedroom in search of more money. In the process, he ransacked the widow’s home. The bandit subse-

his face then pushed her down onto her bed and ordered her to lie straight. The bandit then demanded money.

“He slapped me several times and asked me where is the money? I then showed him the bag and he went over to get it,” the saddened widow explained. She said the bag contained about $25,000 and a quantity of jewellery.

quently found another purse containing $600,000 in cash and $700,000 in jewellery. He also carted off some electrical and carpenter tools from the storeroom.

The thief then escaped after spending one hour in the widow’s home. The Police were then informed. They visited the scene and the investigation is e currently ongoing.

Mix-up at swearing-in of Trinidad PM forces second ceremony

Aprotocol mix-up resulted in Trinidad’s new Attorney General and National Security Minister having to take the oath of office twice Wednesday.

Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi and the National Security Minister, retired Major General Edmund Dillon, were initially sworn in at the ceremony at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s, which saw Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley officially becoming the country’s leader following his People’s National Movement (PNM) victory at the polls on Monday.

The two should have been sworn in before Rowley, but instead Dillon went first, followed by Al-Rawi, and then the Prime Minister.

Retired Major General Edmund Dillon, the new National Security Minister, was the first to take the oath.

A statement from the Office of the President Wednesday night acknowledged the mistake at the swearing-in and said the matter had been dealt with.

“There was a sequential error in the order of the oath-taking at the swearing-in ceremony... This has been immediately rectified

and the oath of office was retaken by Mr Al-Rawi, MP, and retired Major General Dillon, MP, and new instruments of appointment were reissued respectively at the Office of the President,” it said. “This error does not nullify in any way the oath and appointment of the duly elected Prime Minister,” it added.

Both Al-Rawi and Dillon said they were not bothered about the mishap, adding that the situation was handled well.

The remaining members of Rowley’s Cabinet will be sworn in tomorrow morning.

(Caribbean360)

Around the world

Migrant crisis: Germany says EU quota plan not enough

European Union plans for member states to accept 160,000 new asylum seekers are only a first step in solving the migrant crisis, Germany’s Vice Chancellor says.

Sigmar Gabriel said 450,000 people had arrived in Germany so far this year, with 37,000 in the first eight days of September.

Tens of thousands, mainly Syrians, have pushed north in recent weeks.

Serbian TV says a record 5000 migrants have arrived at the border with Hungary in the past 24 hours.

The Hungarian Army earlier started military exercises to prepare for a possible future role in guarding

Thousands of migrants are enduring heavy rain in northern Greece, trying to cross into Macedonia

the border and stem the flow of people – a move criticised by human rights groups.

Meanwhile, Austria’s Government said 5700 people had crossed over from Hungary in recent hours.

Accused Ghana Judges shown bribe videos

Some 22 of the Ghanaian Judges allegedly caught on camera asking for bribes have been shown the videos at the start of the investigation, judicial sources have told the BBC.

The hearing has been held behind closed doors at the Supreme Court, the Judges’ responses have not been made public.

A total of 34 Judges and Magistrates have been accused after a two-year investigation by a local Journalist.

It is the biggest scandal in the history of Ghana’s judiciary.

The BBC’s Sammy Darko reports from Accra that a total of 180 court officials are facing dismissal procedures, in a case that has gripped the attention of Ghanaians.

The 22 Lower Court Judges and Magistrates have been suspended pending the investigation.

The 12 accused High Court Judges have submit-

ted their written responses to the accusations.

Chief Justice Georgina Theodora Wood will now examine their responses before deciding whether to open a formal investigation into the accusations, in which case, they would also be suspended, our correspondent says.

He says each of the accused Judges has only been shown the portions concerning them.

The accused Judges attended the hearings accompanied by their lawyers.

Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas says he has nearly 500 hours of video evidence on tape, which had been handed over to the Chief Justice.

The Attorney General has granted him immunity under the whistle-blower act to pursue the story.

The issue now is whether Anas should go ahead and broadcast the video as he has said he will. (Excerpt from BBC News)

National train operator OeBB temporarily suspended services from Hungary because of the increasing numbers and the risks of overcrowding.

Many migrants are trying

to travel through Hungary to Germany, Austria and Sweden – wealthier EU nations with more liberal asylum laws.

The authorities in Hungary have been told to expect 40,000 more migrants by next week.

Meanwhile, Denmark’s Police Chief says his officers have been ordered to let migrants travel freely through the country without registering if they do not want to seek asylum there.

Denmark suspended all rail links with Germany on Wednesday and temporarily closed a motorway after Police stopped hundreds of migrants trying to reach Sweden at the border. (Excerpt from BBC News)

India calls in Saudi Ambassador over rape case; protest held outside Saudi Embassy

India called in the Saudi Arabian Ambassador on Thursday to seek his cooperation with an investigation into allegations one of his diplomats repeatedly raped two Nepalese women, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said.

The women, aged 30 and 50, have filed complaints with Police alleging the diplomat beat and sexually assaulted them while they were imprisoned at his apartment in Gurgaon.

The Foreign Ministry “conveyed (a) request” to Ambassador Saud Mohammed Alsati from the Police for the Embassy’s cooperation “in the case of two Nepali citizens”, MEA spokesman Vikas Swarup said on Twitter.

Police said on Wednesday that they were pushing ahead with their investigation, despite the fact the Saudi official has diplomatic immunity.

The Saudi Embassy has denied the claims, saying it “strongly stresses that these allegations are false and have not been proven”.

A group of women’s rights activists on Thursday held a protest outside the Saudi Arabian Embassy demanding action against the diplomat.

The activists of AllIndia Democratic Women’s Association shouted slogans against the diplomat and demanded justice for the two women.

They also demanded that no diplomatic immunity should be given to the diplomat.

The two women, who were allegedly confined and raped by the diplomat and his “guests”, were rescued by Gurgaon Police on Monday.

One of the women said on Wednesday that they had been held at the Gurgaon apartment for about four months. (Excerpt from Times of India)

Russian aid flights to Syria carry military equipment

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has confirmed that the country’s “humanitarian” flights to Syria carry military equipment as well as humanitarian aid – after the United States and NATO warned Moscow over its involvement in the Syrian conflict.

“Russian planes are sending to Syria both military equipment in accordance with current contracts and humanitarian aid,” Lavrov told reporters on Thursday.

Russia’s Kommersant daily newspaper said earlier on Thursday that Moscow’s advanced BTR-82A armoured personnel carriers were among arms supplied to Damascus.

ing Syria with arms, advisers, military equipment. Nothing much has really changed.

“Between 2009 and 2011 Russia was supplying 71 per cent of Syria’s military needs – everything from jets to military equipment to air defence systems.

“Russian Foreign Minister says this continues to take place, but he did make a distinction: there has been additional air traffic coming into Latakia’s airbase and he says military equipment and humanitarian aid are being delivered,” Sharp said.

China insists growth target will be met despite slump

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has said his country is on track to hit its seven per cent growth target despite difficulties brought on by a slump in the country’s stock market.

However, speaking at the World Economic Forum in the Chinese city of Dalian on Thursday, Li admitted the target would be hard to achieve.

Al Jazeera’s Adrian Brown, reporting from Beijing, said Li appeared to be under pressure and looked nervous in front of the audience comprising business and political leaders from around the world.

“His message was one of reassurance... He said China will achieve its economic growth target of seven per cent, and gave categoric assurances,” Brown said.

“Overall, the Chinese Premier wanted to give the illusion at least that China’s economy was still stable –but these are difficult times.”

China’s stock market began a sharp slump in June with the Shanghai composite, the country’s main benchmark, sliding from a peak of 5166 points to a low of 2927 points in August.

Global markets have responded negatively to the fall, and China has sought to reassure international investors by pumping US$100 billion of cash into banks in the hopes of helping spur the economy.

The world’s second largest economy’s central bank has also devalued its currency, the yuan, in the hopes that it would boost exports and encourage Chinese consumers to buy locally produced products.

Despite some fears of a global currency war, Li said on Thursday that China had no interest in such an event and that countries should instead boost economic cooperation as the global economy remains sluggish. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Dramatic rescues as tsunami-like flood hits Japan city

Military helicopters have plucked residents from the top floors of their homes after raging floodwaters poured in and inundated a wide swath of a city north of Tokyo.

As heavy rain pummelled Japan for a second straight day, the Kinugawa River broke through a flood berm on Thursday, sending a tsunami-like wall of water into Joso, about 50 kilometres northeast of Japan’s capital.

feared trapped when water engulfed his home, NHK national television said.

Earlier, NHK showed aerial footage of rescuers lowered from helicopters and clambering onto second-floor balconies to reach stranded residents.

In one dramatic rescue by a military helicopter, the rescuer could be seen descending four times over about a 20-minute period to take four people up oneby-one, as a deluge of water swept around the home.

Al Jazeera’s Peter Sharp, reporting from Moscow, said that nothing has changed

Moscow has previously insisted in public that its flights to Syria were only for humanitarian purposes.

and the Russians have been supplying the Syrian government for years now.

“Going back 60 years, Russia has been supply-

“As far as boosting up boots on the ground, he said Russian military specialists are working on training Syrians on using Russian weapons and no additional steps have been taken.” (Excerpt

The flooding has forced more than 100,000 people from their homes, at least 17 people were injured. Two people were missing.

A 63-year-old woman was missing in a landslide that hit her home while a man in his 70s in Joso was

Yuko Yoshida from the Japanese Red Cross told Al Jazeera that the exact number of those in need of emergency rescue was not known because many people had evacuated before the rains came in. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

friday, september 11, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana’s economic decline “beyond advice”

... Govt should focus on village economies – Gaskin

BY ALEXIS RODNEY

olitical Commentator

Pand Economist Ramon Gaskin says the health of Guyana’s economy is deteriorating as he called upon the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) Government to redirect its focus on the local communities, to unearth ways of stimulating the economy. This is the same advice proffered by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C).

Asked if the current Finance Minister was receiving bad advice as to how to deal with the matter, Gaskin said that the situation was “beyond advice” as Guyana’s deep economic downturn has had a severe effect on the production levels of the major industries, including the rice, sugar, gold, bauxite and mining.

But Gaskin said that while these are good and remain the constants of Guyana’s economy, Government should place them aside for the time and focus more on the small local communities that could eventually see an upward movement of the country’s financial system.

He admitted that most of the problems Guyana is facing could very well be a result of the prices on the world market, and with Government pumping monies into many of them, this only pulls the economy backward.

Government continues to pump billions of dollars into the failing sugar industry,

has offered to subsidise the mining sector, the Guyana Power and Light, Linden Electricity Company and the National Insurance Scheme among other entities, although the country’s financial standing is poor.

Gaskin said he predicts that the situation will not see any improvement until the New Year. He maintained that Government needs to do a better job to counteract the financial problems.

Meanwhile, commentators have argued that while the country remains in a bad economic condition, the new Administration might very well be receiving poor economic advice. Some of these “advisers” might have their own ambitions and agendas.

Government has appointed renowned Economist, Dr Clive Thomas as its Economic Adviser on Governance, however mistakes have still been made, particularly with the public declaration shape of state funds.

They noted that the information that was hastily declared by Finance Minster Winston Jordan, which later recanted, is one example of poor management and counsel. Jordan had told the National Assembly that Guyana had an external debt of some US$1.6 billion although he could not quote the exact figure for the domestic or internal debt the country had.

Subsequent to that statement, the PPP/C had protested the figure, stating that it was grossly inaccurate and misleading. Former Finance Minister, Dr

Ashni Singh had said that Appendix VI to the National Budget Speech for 2014 reported that Guyana’s external debt stock stood at US$1.247 billion at the end of December 2013, and provided a detailed disaggregation by creditor.

Secondly, he said Appendix F1 to the MidYear Report for 2014 reported that the external debt stock stood at US$1.227 billion at the end of June 2014, and provided a similar level of disaggregation. Thirdly, Table 7-III of the Statistical Annexe to the Bank of Guyana Annual Report for 2014 reported that Guyana’s stock of external public debt amounted to US$1.217 billion. Jordon later corrected the misinformation.

Later, Government had come in for severe criticisms for its announced intention to withdraw $60 billion in Government funds that are deposited at the commercial banks.

But Jordan had told Guyana Times that the withdrawals were being done to finance the budget deficit and honour several campaign commitments made by the Government. This was done against the warning of Private Sector Commission that the situation would have led to a high level of non-performing loans.

Government had also made a blunder when it declared that it had found the PetroCaribe fund empty, failing to understand, according to the Opposition, that work was being done, thus the money had to be utilised.

Abram Zuil teachers call on Ministry to build new school

BY INDRAwAttIE NAtRAm

Teachers of the Abram Zuil Secondary School in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are calling on the Education Ministry to construct a new school.

Headmaster

Roopcharran Persaud relayed this request to Region Two Chairman Daveanand Ramdatt in the presence of Regional Education Officer

Baramadai Seepersaud and People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)

Councillors Arnold Adam and Ranjeev Singh during their visit to the school.

The Headmaster said at the moment the school needed urgent remedial works, as teachers were working in unfavourable conditions and the school did not have sufficient space. He further ex-

plained that most of the school was very hot, since the classrooms lacked ventilation or air conditioning, while the stage area had no windows.

Headmaster Persaud further said urgent remedial works needed to be done on the Home Economics,

science and the staffroom areas.

After listening to the concerns raised, the Region Two Chairman toured the school and got a firsthand look at the classrooms.

Ramdatt, during his review, said that indeed the school needed a new build-

14-year-old hangs self in

As Guyana joined the rest of the world in observance of World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday, a mother unfortunately woke up at 04:00h to see her 14-year-old son hanging in the garage by a rope from the neck.

The dead boy has been identified as Joshua Beepat also called “Jags” of Third Street, Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

According to his father, Ramnauth Beepat, he was in bed at the time of the discovery. He said he was awakened by his wife who was up at that time to start preparing meals for the family. The taxi driver told this publication that the last he knew of his son was that he had gone to bed on Wednesday evening. “When I come home, he already reach home from school and we gaff and then I leff and go back out. When

I come back about 6:30 [18:30h] he was cleaning the car.”

garage

Beepat said he did not see any signs which might have indicated suicidal tendencies. “I can’t say why he do it. He had no problem at home, and this morning the teacher from school came and she say that he didn’t have any problem at school and all the class children was here. He ain’t get no problem with anybody.”

Asked whether the Lower Corentyne Secondary School student had a cellular phone, Beepat replied in the negative. He explained that on Wednesday evening his son was playing music from a laptop computer along with his 18-year-old brother. “Then later on he small sister tell me that they gone to bed and I go in. He had to get up and open the door and come in the garage then lock back the door and do it,” the grieving father said. Beepat leaves to mourn his parents and two siblings.

GBTI awards Early Savers Club top performers

The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), on Thursday recognised 15 girls and boys of their Early Savers Club who performed well at the recent National Grade Six Assessment Examinations, by awarding them with bursaries.

The awardees are Ismael Tang, Rachel Bissoondial, Rhidhwaan Kasim, Tarico Henry, Ruth Benjamin, Daequon Burnett, Renique Nelson, Raenell Holder, Afeefah London, Hansvahini Maraj, Omkar Persaud, Ashantie Singh, Maria-Erica Benjamin, Yashoda Hansraj and Shivish Mohamed. Each of these individuals scored above 500 out of a possible 535.

Sean Noel, the Bank’s Administration Manager,

shared that awarding top performing students was an annual activity of the Bank, which they were proud to be able to show these young boys and girls that their achievements were well recognised.

Noel noted that the Bank had received over 50 entries and the 15 awardees were randomly selected.

To the awardees, Noel encouraged them to maintain attitudes of leadership, to always show concern for others and to practice being positive role models. He wished the youngsters, on behalf of the Bank, success in their endeavours.

Education Officer, Mrs McDre of the Education Ministry on behalf the Chief Education Officer Olato Sam, encouraged the stu-

ing and it was budgeted for in the 2016 Regional Budget. He commended the Headmaster for the works being done through the Parent-Teachers Association (PTA).

Ramdatt said indeed a new school building was a priority for Abram Zuil and promised that he would follow up on the remedial works.

Regional Education Officer Seepersaud informed the Headmaster that the school has been budgeted for in the Region’s

dents to remain focused in their endeavours as this new school year only marks the beginning of a new path with a long road ahead. She encouraged them to make wise choices and to let the positive results continue to show.

To the parents, she urged them to remember that this is a new and much more difficult chapter in the lives of these young children. She mentioned that they should continue to support the children and always be close by to help guide them down the right path.

McDre told the children to never give up on the path to a better future and to not take anything for granted as things said and done will remain with them forever.

2016 budget. Persaud in turn requested to be involved in the consultation process before construction. Abram Zuil Secondary School, over the years, has done exceedingly well and at one time topped the country and the entire Caribbean in the person of Sarah Hakh at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC). The school, with a current population of 512, also won the 2014 Sagicor Visionary Challenge with its Paddy Husk Project.

guyanatimesgy.com

The 2015 Miss Indigenous Heritage Pageant, held under the theme “Preserving our Customs and Traditions”, will see 10 beautiful and well cultured young ladies vying for the title. The event is slated for September 26 at the National Cultural Centre.

Training for the pageant is currently underway and is being headed by pageant coach Pamela Dillon who is impressed with the overall presentation of the delegates.

The 10 young ladies who represent the 10 administrative regions, have been engaged in a number of

activities leading up to the big night. The delegates will be competing in several segments including opening, talent, evening gown and tradition.

On Tuesday, September 8, the delegates spent a significant part of their day at the Palms Geriatric Home, interacting with and pampering the

residents of the home. Service to the elderly and young is the theme of their ‘Indigenous Challenge’ this year.

The contestants will also be engaging in a number of activities, including a visit to this year’s Heritage Village, Santa Aratak, in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara)

Meet the delegates

Delegate number 1 – Marcelina Welcome

Marcelina Welcome, 18, is representing Region One (Barima-Waini) and hails from the region of the famous Shell Beach. This Mabaruma beauty, whose ambition is to become a Journalist, enjoys a hearty serving of Casareep pepperpot and cassava bread.

In her free time she enjoys helping others, reading and travelling. This ambassador of the Warrau tribe thinks that much needed attention needs to be paid to the growing suicide epidemic in Guyana. Hence, her platform will be addressing the issue of suicide prevention.

Delegate number 3 – Chryssanti Brown

Hailing from the exotic paradise where peaceful Lokono people can be seen enjoying the ambience of natural cool black waters of the Pokoweiro creek, is 20-year-old Chryssanti Brown.

Brown, an (acting) Teacher is honoured to be representing the only titled Village in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Santa Aratak Mission. Her passion for children has motivated her to become an advocate for child rights.

Therefore, her platform will be exploring the issue of Rights of the Child. When not enjoying the beautiful outdoors of her village, she enjoys a good meal of thin sun dried Cassava bread and hot labba pepperpot.

Delegate number 5 – Marisa Clinton

Seventeen-year-old Marisa Clinton, proudly representing Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) originates from the village of Moraikobai, found 93 miles up the Mahaicony River.

Clinton, an aspiring Toshao, believes in the importance of good governance in Amerindian communities. Hence, she will be highlighting this issue as her platform during her quest for the Miss Indigenous Heritage crown.

A cool glass of bambali served with Tuma bushcow and cassava bread is her favourite meal. When not assisting her grandmother on the farm, she enjoys a good game of volleyball and a cool dip in the black water of the Mahaicony River.

Delegate number 7 – Candacy Williams

This 22-year-old Carib beauty hails from the Mineral rich region of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

Candacy Williams a native Batavian (Batavia), enjoys indulging in a finger licking meal of fish tuma with Cassava bread and a refreshing drink of sweet fly to wash it down.

Candacy who serves on the Village Council of Batavia, is currently pursuing her dream of becoming a trained Teacher. Her passion for the environment has influenced her choice of platform, which are the effects of gold mining on amerindian villages.

Delegate number 9 – Sherica Ambrose

Representing the vast savannahs of Region Nine (Upper TakatuUpper Essequibo) is 21-year-old Sherica Ambrose from St Ignatius Village. This avid football fan, of both Akawaio and Wapishana descent, holds a Diploma in Accountancy from the University of Guyana.

Ambrose believes that there is an urgent need for preservation and sharing of skills in the making of indigenous craft, as this skill is fast declining. Hence she will be promoting as her platform, the need for cultural preservation in the Rupununi. A good meal of roasted fish and farine is what this southern indigenous beauty enjoys.

when the national celebrations are held on September 12.

Tickets for the pageant cost $2000, $3000 and $4000 and are available at the National Cultural Centre and Indigenous People’s Affairs Ministry.

2 –

Areeka Noami Ramnaraine, 17, born in the beautiful lakeside village of Mainstay Whyaka is the proud representative of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Ramnaraine believes that education is important for the development of indigenous youth and will be addressing this through her platform during the pageant.

Ramnaraine enjoys a refreshing swim in the famous Lake Mainstay, after which she relaxes with a good book and some deer pepperpot. This Arawak beauty is an aspiring teacher, who also enjoys modelling and going to church.

Delegate number 4 – Athina Rebecca Andrews

Born in the Arawak Village of Pakuri, otherwise known as St Cuthberts’ Mission, 20-year-old Athina Rebecca Andrews believes that the high rate of school dropout among Indigenous youth negatively impacts the development of villages.

As her plarform, Athina will be addressing the impact of school dropout among indigenous youth.

Pepperpot Pot, with a side serving of otocuma worm (tocuma worms) and cassava bread is what this aspiring Nurse enjoys. When not engaged in various sport activities, Athina takes pleasure in preparing meals for her family and interacting with people. Andrews is the proud representative of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

Delegate number 6 – Sarah Daw

Sarah Daw, 17, from the Village Orealla, which can be found 53 km down the Corentyne River, is the proud representative of Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). This aspiring Accountant, of Arawak descent, on any given day can be found enjoying her favourite dish of roasted Coromeyo and Cassava Bread.

Daw believes that with tremendous investments in the agricultural sector, the Hinterland can become the bread basket of Guyana thus, improving food security of the nation.

She is therefore taking this opportunity to promote her platform of “the Agricultural Potential of the Hinterland”. Daw, an avid reader, enjoys spending time with her family and believes that agriculture is of utmost importance to the lives of the indigenous peoples.

–

An aspiring doctor, this proud 16-year-old Patamona beauty, hails from the region known for its breathtaking mountain ranges and majestic waterfalls, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). A native of Paramakatoi, Surujani enjoys singing, travelling and exploring her rich Patamona history.

Her enthusiasm towards the sharing of traditional practices has led to her becoming an advocate for Patamona culture. This opportunity will be used to promote her platform of preserving the customs and traditions of the Patamonas. A hearty meal of juicy mora worms and cassava bread is what she enjoys.

Delegate number 10 – Gracelin Ann Campbell

Nineteen-year-old Gracelin Ann Campbell, an aspiring English Teacher, from the village of Hururu, in the Upper

is the proud representative of Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

This proud Carib descendant currently pursuing a degree in English at the University of Guyana enjoys a good meal of labba pepperpot and Cassava bread.

Campbell believes that teenage pregnancy is quickly becoming a norm in today’s society and needs to be addressed, as it robs, young people of opportunities to make a greater contribution to their society. Therefore she is taking this opportunity to address the issue of Prevention of Teenage Pregnancy amongst Indigenous youth.

Twenty-two-year-old Damion Frank Apple, more affectionately referred to as “Damie” of 6th Avenue, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) was on Saturday last crowned Princess Karaoke 2015 Star when the finals was held at Club Next, within Princess Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Apple carted off $100,000 in cash, a trophy, a recording deal, an all inclusive weekend at Princess Hotel, and the opportunity to represent at an international karaoke contest when the time arrives.

The former St Stanislaus College student told Guyana Times Entertainment that being a part of the competition was a breathtaking experience and he was delighted to be announced the winner after competing with 30 of the most talented amateur singers who participated in the competition.

He admitted that Laushaun Charles, who is full of potential, was his biggest competitor throughout the competition which lasted for several weeks. His motivation however is no other than his fellow Bartician Silyne Griffith, who kept pushing him to enter the competition.

Apple stated that his biggest role models and mentors are his parents who helped him to realise the dreams he set out to accomplish. Now that he has been crowned Princess Star, he intends to work with other gifted artistes and studio owners to elevate himself.

Looking ahead, he sees himself in the next five years as a hard working, motivated artiste who others local amateur singers can look up to and be inspired. His advice for those wanting to participate in a singing competition is to “believe in your dreams, for God has already had it planned out for you, and if he can do it for me, he also can do it for all of you”.

On the night of the finals, most of the singers brought their supporters, but it could not be said that all of them brought their ‘A Game’ to the final showdown.

Jonathan Basteano who was brought back by a Wildcard Save disappointed the Judges

with his presentation. Not bringing his supporters, he fell down miserably, failing to score high in the area of crowd response.

Much was expected of Luous Ebenezer, but he presented a song that made no room for high pitches and notes, and he fell short of the top five positions. His sister Romichelle Brummel with her rendition of Katie Perry’s “Fireworks” also failed to make the final cut, since the Judges felt she brought no fire to her performance.

Making it to the top five ranking were Dameon Apple; fellow Bartician, Silyne Griffith; Daniel Dondrake, from the West Coast of Demerara;

OAzzaruddin Laljie from the East Coast of Demerara; and Lashaun Charles from Georgetown.

The audience was shocked when Silyne Griffith practically forgot her song on stage. The Judges, feeling compassion, allowed her a second start amid loud protests from sections of the gathering. Her performance was very ‘jittery’ and received little applause when she left the stage.

Laljie quite obviously did his best, but his vocals were no match for that of Dameon Apple and Lashaun Charles who seemed to dominate the competition.

May were of the view that Lashaun Charles should have won the contest since she by far had the most powerful vocals of all the singers, but according to the Judges, she brought the same drama to the stage like she brought week after week, and Apple scored the highest for crowd response, since he had campaigned and had a sizeable gathering in his honour.

Laljie’s relatives came out and applauded all the while, with hopes that he made the top three. Nevertheless, he did win the prize for the Most Promising Artiste.

Dondrake failed to place but won for himself a recording contract, compliments of KrossKolor Studios. Also securing a record deal from this entity was Romichelle Brummel. In addition, Azzaruddin Laljie also won recording contracts compliments of Vizion Sound Studios.

n Sunday, September 13, Hurakabra River Resort, on the Essequibo River will be hosting the second beach party for the Nereid’s Rally, under the auspices of the Tourism Ministry.

This is the third year of the annual Nereid’s Rally, which will see about 10 yachts visiting Guyana from Trinidad and Tobago, beginning September 7.

Last year, because of the interest expressed by the public to see the yachts anchored in the Essequibo River, Hurakabra River Resort hosted a ‘Beach Party’ for the public.

The event consists of a full day of fun and games including giving the Guyanese public an opportunity to go on board the yachts, be involved in games against the cruisers and win prizes donated by the main sponsors, Banks DIH.

Games, such as water melon-eating, volleyball, tug of war, paper planes and others would be staged. Inclusive in the cost for the event is a sumptuous BBQ lunch.

The event starts by boarding the bus, outside the Tourism Ministry, at 20:00h for a one hour ride to Roeden Rust Marina (near to Parika), then boarding the jet boat for another hour on the river before arrival to Hurakabra.

Twenty-year-old Shan Anthony Seecharan, also called “Shan” who hails from Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini) is a promising designer who is full of potential. He was born to Desiree and Eustace Seecharan and is the youngest of 10 siblings.

This talented young aspiring designer grew up in Mabaruma and attended the Mabaruma Secondary School. After completing his secondary education, he moved to Georgetown to pursue his passion in the form of designing.

Growing up was sometimes difficult since his siblings’ basic needs were not always satisfied. This motivated him to strive harder to achieve his goals and make a name for himself in the fashion industry.

He always had a creative mind from an early stage. It all began when he started experimenting with the sewing machine and cutting and making clothes for his cousins. Although he was not perfect from the beginning, he learnt from his mistakes and now he is doing big things that are already creating some buzz in the fashion industry.

Although young and pretty new in the industry, his aim is to produce designs that are comfortable, unique and boast confidence in whoever wears them. “The feeling I get from seeing a client look sexy, feel happy and satisfied when wearing one of my designs is all that keeps me doing what I love”.

His brand is SAS Designs – a name that represents his initials. “Some of the top Brands are named after the person who designed them and that is where the SAS brand originated from, he told Guyana Times Entertainment As he thinks ahead, he see himself having his own boutique, hosting fashion shows throughout Guyana, the Caribbean and taking his brand to the international stage. His greatest inspiration and role model will definitely be Roger Gary and Michelle Cole who have both done exceptional work in Guyana, the Caribbean and further afield. He also takes inspiration from Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad.

His advice to young people who would want to be a part of the fashion industry is to stay true to themselves and to believe in their potential. “The only person that can stop you from doing anything in this world is you”.

All-inclusive tickets costs $17,000 each and are available at the National Cultural Centre.

For those in Bartica and Parika who would like to be a part of the event will only pay $6000 and tickets are available at Angellina’s Travel in Parika, NDC Region Seven Registry Office and Ryan and Ruben in Bartica. This cost is only if those people are using their own transportation.

He stated that coming from a small community in a somewhat remote part of Guyana to a designer is a major success for this young man. He is also the official designer for Tazmein Coats, Hostess of the TLC Television show. Apart from designing, he loves to visit the black water creeks and going out to dinners but he spends most of his time sketching new designs or just listening to music and relaxing.

His favourite colour is back and he always enjoys a good Guyanese cook-up rice. Other than that, he is a calm and friendly individual who hopes to be an inspiration to other aspiring designers.

Colwyn Abrams, age 23, will be heading to Panama to represent Guyana in the upcoming Mr Wonderful World Pageant slated for September 20-28. This is the first year Guyana will be represented in the pageant that will see more than 40 countries participating.

The Miss and Mister Wonderful World is an annual male and female beauty pageant founded in 2014. It is owned and organized by the LoMen’s Fashion Organisation, which also organises the annual Nuestra Belleza Nicaragua Pageant, since 2010.

Miss and Mister Wonderful World is a beauty pageant, discovering dedicated males and females who can inspire the young generation to create a wonderful world. Each year in the host country, the Organisation makes the life of a child brighter with gifts and donations.

However, in order for Abrams to participate in the event, he is soliciting the assistance of corporate Guyana. He is all hyped and ready to represent but according to him, several persons who had committed to assist have pulled out.

Persons desirous of making a donation can call telephone numbers 687-4350 and 639-7332 or go online to the Mr Wonderful World Guyana International representative at http://www.gofundme.com/rqvnv6p.

BCyrus

on Friday and on Television

The album consist of 11 mixed songs that tell about his past and more so, the suffering of children. The songs were all written by the talented rapper and were recorded in Bunty Singh’s studio. The Producer of the album is Emerald Digital Production.

The legendary Barbadian calypsonian “The Mighty Gabby” joins an exciting group of artistes who will be performing at the 2nd Rupununi Music & Arts Festival at Rock View, Annai, Region nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) between September 18-20.

“Gabby”, as he is affectionately known, has been writing calypsos for over 40 years and has penned more than 700 songs, winning the calypso crown in Barbados at the tender age of 19 in 1968. Since then he has won the Calypso King titles in 1969, 1976, 1985, 1999, 2000 and 2010. He was awarded Folk Singer of the Year in 1977, 1978 and 1979.

Gabby joins a vibrant mix of other international performers at the music themed festival which is in its second year. Also performing at the festival is an artiste who entertains and brings spiritual offerings from Native American. He is none other than Flautist

and Storyteller JJ Kent. There will also be the popular Suriname group MAYA, with a dynamic collection of Brazilian performers including the young quintet ReggioJaz;, the mixed Group

To complement the international artistes, Guyana is not to be outdone and add-

ing to the weekend’s cultural experience, home grown performers and workshop leaders include the pan maestro, Ras Camo Williams; the Georgetown Jazz Project, OBE, Lead by Gavin Mendonca; the youth and exuberance of dancers from the Nachgana Academy of Dance; the percussive “Chuckie” from The Buxton Fusion; the sublime Choreographer and highly skilled dancer Kavita; the soulful and talented Josi; and the talented Surama Cultural Group, spearheading traditional Amerindian dances involving many of the local communities in and around Annai.

The festivities will also include practical dance workshops in African Caribbean Movement lead by Tracy Douglas, Yoga with Monica Brinn and a wide range of traditional Amerindian arts and crafts, workshops and displays. The festival opens on the evening of Friday, September 18.

The videos for the songs were also filmed by Emerald Digital Production and were filmed in several parts of Georgetown, including the seawalls, Botanical Gardens and other places of interest.

Gooljar, a rapper, grew up writing songs, and really got going around the age of 12 years old. His motivation to write the song stemmed from him being bullied and beaten up in school due to the fact that the other children were much taller than he was.

Every afternoon, he would return home and vent his anger on a piece of paper. He even attempted to inflict wounds to his body but eventually stood up for himself. After fighting back against his peers, he swiftly moved from the one being bullied to one of the most popular students in school.

After finding himself involved in a love triangle with disappointing and heartbreaking endings, he stated to write songs documenting his relationship trials. He sings all genre of music from rap to hip hop and Bollywood style.

Now, 18 years old, he is settled and is thinking about a bright future.

Stag Elite League…

The Stag Elite League on Thursday received another corporate boost when E-Networks Inc. came onboard in what could be one of the most important facets of the country’s most lucrative football league.

E-Networks Inc., Guyana’s premier Cable TV, Internet, VOIP and 4G Broadband Service Provider, presented the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) with a cheque for an undisclosed amount.

According to E-Networks Inc., the support for the league is seen as them playing their part in helping the sport’s development in Guyana and

more so, giving exposure to the game’s brightest stars.

Subscribers to E-Networks services will be able to watch ‘the game of the month’ as the GFF’s Marketing and Communication Director Rawle Toney explained, “It’s the intention of the GFF to ensure that the players, more than anything else, benefit from the league. Therefore, we must have these games broadcast somehow. It’s a costly factor, but luckily for us, E-Networks is excited about this venture and they will be undertaking the broadcast of the games.”

“We’re starting with a ‘Game of the Month’,

which will be shown on E-Networks Ch.1 and then on another local channel which is to be determined. I think over time, this deal will be one of the biggest,” Toney said.

The company explained that one of the biggest sellers for their service of Cable Television is sports, since they (E-networks) are the distributors of ESPN in Guyana.

Meanwhile, with E-Networks set to embark on another ground breaking initiative, the Stag Elite League will be used as a tool by the company to help market their new product, with fans and players alike set to benefit extensively from the giveaways.

Local football to hit ‘Cable TV’ as E-Networks comes onboard

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By AvenAsh RAmzAn

The Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) meeting with members of the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) proved to a major success on Wednesday evening when representatives of the two bodies were able to arrive at a consensus on two major issues.

The aim of the meeting was to have the UDFA’s new constitution adopted, as well as agree on a date for elections to be held, according to GFF’s Director of Marketing and Communications, Rawle Toney.

According to Toney, both goals were achieved, with October 1 being the date for the elections.

The meeting was held at the Linden Enterprise Network building on Republic Avenue, and was attended by Chairman of the Normalisation Committee Clinton Urling, GFF’s General Secretary Richard Groden, Assistant General Secretary Diedre Davis and Toney.

Earlier this year, the GFF held its Extraordinary Congress at the Marriott Hotel where the members associations reviewed and subsequently lifted the sanctions that were imposed on

the UDFA executives by the previous GFF administration.

“They will now be able to participate in football and football related activities; they won’t resume their roles as the executives of the UDFA,” Urling had explained.

Those executives were Sharma Solomon, Collie Hercules, Terrence Mitchell, Wayne Bethune, Rawle Johnson, Jeffrey Trotman, Ansawatt Barrett, Patrick Day and Clive Brushe.

Congress at the time believed that the two should not have been played on the same day, but the UDFA explained that the finals being played on New Year’s Day, 2014 meant a lot to the Linden community and as such, went ahead with the hosting of their finals.

Notably, all the associations present at the GFF Extraordinary Congress with the exception of the GFA had voted for the suspension to be lifted with immediate effect.

Under the new GFF constitution, which was also adopted at the Congress, there are now 22 Member Associations, an increase of 10.

Elections of all the Member Associations will have to take place in order for the GFF Congress to be held where an Executive Committee will be elected to lead the local governing body forward. It has since been announced that the GFF Congress is fixed for November 14.

The GFF will next turn its attention to Essequibo and Bartica, two associations the local governing body has direct responsibility for, Toney pointed out.

The aforementioned officials of the UDFA were suspended by the Christopher Matthias-led GFF for playing their tournament final on January 1, 2014, at the MSC ground, simultaneously with the Georgetown Football Association’s (GFA) Banks Beer Cup Finals at the Guyana National Stadium.

PM rowley has my support – lara

Cricket legend Brian Lara is batting for Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and hopes he is able to secure two consecutive terms in office.

Lara, however, has remained tight-lipped on whether that support will be made evident by him joining Rowley’s Cabinet as Sport Minister.

Lara, a double world record-holder in cricket, was among those present at Queen’s Hall in St Ann’s on Wednesday to witness firsthand the swearing-in of Rowley as the country’s sev-

enth prime minister.

He is calling on citizens to rally around Rowley for the sake of the country.

“We have a new leader now, new ideas, and I want

to wish him the best and I just want him to know he has my full support.

“I think all leaders need full support, so it is really good that the country has turned out and said to the rest of the world or said to themselves that listen, we want somebody new, so it is amazing just to be in this environment and I am very touched by actually what is going on.

“They have a great responsibility in a very suppressed situation, so his true leadership has to come out,” Lara said. (Trinidad

Trelawny stadium to be renamed in Bolt’s honour

The Government of Jamaica has revealed plans are afoot to rename the Trelawny MultiPurpose stadium the Usain Bolt Sport Academy, after the iconic Jamaican sprint legend.

Speaking at a press briefing at Jamaica House, Minister with Responsibility for Sports Natalie NeitaHeadley told the media that it is a matter of priority, as it is “near and dear to Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller”.

“It (renaming the stadium) has been the Prime Minister’s dream, not just since Beijing 2015, but it will reflect her desire to have

GT Beer Futsal…

Bent Street, Sparta Boss through to final after huge wins

By Akeem Greene

Despite a late start at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, the two highly anticipated semi-final clashes of Festival City versus Bent Street and Sparta Boss versus West Front Road- Gold is Money, thrilled the boisterous crowd.

On a night which saw 24 goals scored, the various teams put on a splendid display of agility.

In the first-semi final between Bent Street and Festival City, Bent Street side proved to be the more dominant as they powered to victory with a score line of 13-5 at the end of 30 minutes.

Hat-tricks by Stellon David in the third, fourth and 23rd minutes and Daniel Wilson in the 17th, 21st and 27th simply were too much for the Festival City side to contend with.

Goals by Solomon Austin in the fifth and 22nd; Daniel Favourite in the ninth and seasoned campaigner Eon Alleyne in the 10th and 18th for the Festival City team were not the enough to hold off the Bent Street side.

Colin Nelson of Bent Street, who missed a dolly early in the first half, redeemed himself with powerful strikes in the 11th and 24th minutes. The talented Okeeni Fraser, with strikes

off his right foot in the sixth and 26th minutes, dented any hopes of the Festival City revival.

Amos Ramsay, in the eight, Sheldon Profit in the 28th and Jermaine Scott in the 30th also netted for the Bent Street side.

In the second semi-final, which was touted as a grudge match by many, Sparta Boss got the better of West Front Road- Gold is Money. The game, which ended 5-1, was filled with excitement for patrons as they vigorously cheered on their respective teams.

Both teams played a strong defence game, as they both looked to dominate ball possession. But the shackles were broken when West Front striker Randolph

Wagner in the fifth minute hit the back of the Sparta Boss’ net.

Soon after, Deon Alfred strike in the sixth minute equalled the score. Superb goalkeeping from both teams kept the mouth-watering clash interesting, as the game seemed heading into overtime.

However, persistent pressure by Sparta Boss’ front-line men proved to be too much for the West Front Road team as they soon conceded a succession of goals by Travis Grant (24th), Cleon Forrester (26th), Sheldon Shepherd (27th) and Eusi Phillips (28th)

Earlier, the Media team and the Guyana national cricketers played an exhibition game where the Media

Petama Enterprise/Motor Trend softball...

Latiff, Haslim lead Regal to huge win over Raiders

Asuperb all-round effort from Richard Latiff and solid bowling performance from Khalid Haslim spurred Regal to a commanding 160-run win over Herstelling Raiders in latest action in the Petama Enterprise/Motor Trend softball cricket competition.

Latiff struck 46 and then picked up 3-20 to support Haslim’s 4-15 as Regal posted 214-7 in 20 overs and then ripped apart the Raiders for 54.

Team lost 3-4. After an abysmal first half display by the Media team, they looked a more spirited side in the second half and even threatened a boastful victory over the national cricketers.

The Bent Street side, which now has 45 goals in five games, will be meeting a highly organised Sparta Boss team, whose players demonstrate a more strategic game, while the Bent Street ballweavers usually seek to impose their dominance by impressive offensive display.

Festival City and West Front Road will do battle for third place.

The Petra Organisationcoordinated event has a winning purse of $500,000 while the second to fourth place finishers will cart off $250 000, $125 000 and $75 000, respectively.

The final and third place playoff are slated for Sunday at the Clift Anderson Sports Hall. Kick-off time is 19:00h.

Other outstanding individual performances came from Safraz Esau (71) for Regal, S. Ishmael (72 and 2-38) for Princess Hotel and A. Khan (4-16) for Farm. Below are the summarised scores from the most recent matches played.

At GNIC ground: Regal defeated Herstelling Raiders by 160 runs. Regal 214-7 off 20 overs (Safraz Esau 71, Richard Latif 46, Chien Gittens 37, Richie 3-20) Herstelling 54 all out from 9.3 overs (Khalid Haslim 4-15, Richard Latif 3-20, Delroy Perreira 2-4).

At the Carifesta Sports Complex: Princess Hotel defeated Brickery Super Stars by four wickets. Brickery 2035 off 20 overs (Kelvin Kanhai 48, Shafeek Ishmael 2-38) Princess Hotel 206-6 from 19.2 overs (Shafeek Ishmael 72, Mahase Manbahal 26). Wolf Warriors defeated Farm by 76 runs. Wolf Warriors 184-9 off 20 overs (S. Karim 36, A. Khan 4-16) Farm 108 all out from 17.1 overs (R. Reddy 28, L. Marks 20, Mark Harold 2-13).

Parika Defenders defeated Enterprise Legends by

three wickets. Enterprise 155 all out from 19.4 overs (Jitlall 31, K. Beharry 3-31, F. Baksh 2-12) Defenders 158-8 off 19.2 overs (Oswald Black 35*, D. Kannon 29*, R. Ally 3-20, N. Roopdeo 2-12). Regal Masters defeated Savage Masters by five runs. Regal 141-7 off 20 overs (Falim Mohamed 46, Bhim Singh 3-29) Savage Masters 136-9 off 20 overs (Randolph Perreira 32, Raymond Harper 3-21, Peter Persaud 2-27). The competition will continue this Sunday with several matches at the Carifesta Sports Complex. On Pitch One at 09:30hYoung Guns vs Princess Hotel; and at 12:30h- Parika Defenders vs Fishermen Masters. On Pitch Two at 09:30hFarm vs United Brothers; and at 12:30h- Park Rangers vs Enterprise Legends. On Pitch Three at 09:30hWellwoman vs 4R Lioness; at 11:30h- Trophy Stall Angels vs Blue Divas; and at 13:30hYoung Guns vs Brickery Super Stars.

Silvie’s inaugural golf tourney set for Saturday at Lusignan

With the aim of promoting golf in Guyana, Silvie’s General Store will on Saturday stage its inaugural tournament at the Lusignan Golf Course (LGC), from 12:30h.

The business entity confirmed its sponsorship on Thursday when Sales Representative, Ramjit Paul, presented a cheque for an undisclosed sum to LGC Public Relations Office, Guy Griffith, at its location on Hadfield Street.

Griffith informed that the Silvie’s sponsored tournament is special for the LGC, as it gives early preparation to local golfers ahead of the two-day Guyana Open tournament, billed for later this year.

With respect to ground preparation, Griffith said the LGC has been working assiduously to get the course in top shape ever since Silvie’s announced its inten-

tion to host the tournament.

Meanwhile, Paul said that the company is pleased to be associated with the tournament, adding that the company stands committed to the development of sports in general.

All the nation’s top golfers are expected to compete in the Medal Play tournament. Representatives of the sponsor will be at the tournament venue for the presentation ceremony at the end of the day’s play. (Rajiv Bisnauth)

‘WICB Selection Panel erred’

– former national batsman Seeram speaks out against Permaul’s exclusion

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Former Guyana

First-Class batsman Rabindranauth Seeram believes the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Selectors have erred in omitting leftarm spinner Veerasammy Permaul from the squad for the upcoming series against hosts Sir Lanka.

The 26-year-old was not included in a 15-man squad announced by the selectors last Friday. Jomel Warrican, a leftarm spinner like Permaul, had found favour with the selectors.

“The selectors definite-

41 First-Class matches between 1983 and 1992, added, “He (Permaul) has been outstanding in all formats of the game of recent, and based on that, he

et.

He was the leading wicket-taker in the West Indies Cricket Board’s (WICB) Professional Cricket League Four-day

ly made a huge error by not taking Permaul to Sri Lanka,” Seeram opined.

Seeram, an elegant batsman, who averaged 35.30 with three centuries and 1,997 runs from

is obviously an automatic choice.”

In all domestic matches this season – a total of 25 – Permaul has bagged 86 wickets, by far the most by a bowler in regional crick-

tournament with a record 67 victims from 10 games, inclusive of four fivewicket hauls and three 10-wicket match hauls.

In the Super50 competition, Permaul picked up 11 wickets, second only to Sunil Narine’s 12, in five games, including a fourwicket haul and two threewicket hauls, while in the Hero Caribbean Premier League, Permaul continued his fine form in 2015, snatching eight wickets from 10 games for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

“I am not too sure what basis they want to pick the team on, but I believe form plays an important part in our selection,” Seeram, a former Guyana senior team coach, said.

The elegant righthander is of the opinion that both Permaul and fellow Guyanese spinner Devendra Bishoo would have formed the ideal spin attack on the slow pitches in the sub-continent.

“The Guyanese spin twins of Devindra Bishoo and Veerasammy Permaul have proven time and again in recent history that they can consistently demolish batting sides. Both spinners’ complement each other well, and in Sir Lanka where the pitches are on the slow side the two would have deliver the goods for us,” Seeram concluded.

The series, between October 14 to November 12, will comprise two

Carlos Brathwaite, an allrounder, has also included. Warrican, 23, took 49 wickets at nearly 15 runs apiece during the 2014/2015 First-Class season. West Indies Test squad reads: Jason Holder (Captain), Kraigg Brathwaite (Vice-captain), Devendra Bishoo, Carlos Brathwaite, Jermaine Blackwood, Darren Bravo, Rajindra Chandrika, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Shai Hope, Denesh Ramdin, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Jerome Taylor and Jomel Warrican.

“Bizzy”

backs plans for

“Six Heads”

monument

– feels same should be done for Olympic medallist Parris

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Veteran boxing trainer

Maurice “Bizzy” Boyce is in favour of having a national monument in the form of a life-sized statue of the late Andrew “Six Heads” Lewis erected in a prominent location in commemoration of the pugilist’s glorious achievements in the fistic sport.

Lewis passed away earlier this year following a vehicular accident on the East Bank Demerara, and following his passing, President of the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC), Peter Abdool, coined the idea of permanently honouring Guyana’s first world champion with something visible, for fear that Lewis’ legacy will be easily forgotten.

Boyce, who was in Lewis’ corner at various points during his career, lauded the vision of Abdool and the GBBC, noting that it will be a fitting way to honour the memory of the Albouystown son.

“It’s a nice idea,” Boyce said in an invited comment. “Remember, he is the first Guyanese to win a world title and after that the jinx was broken- we had two more world champions quickly after.”

Boyce, who has also worked with another Guyanese world champion Wayne “Big Truck” Braithwaite, pointed out that

Lewis brought immense joy to not only boxing fans, but all Guyanese when he toppled James Page back in 2001 to lift the American’s WBA Welterweight belt at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, U.S.A.

For that reason, Boyce believes he should be properly honoured, and the erection of a monument would be just another way of remembering the champion, after a gym was named after him in Albouystown and the Guyana Boxing Association recently renamed the National Novices competition in his memory.

Boyce also called on the rele-

vant authorities to also consider honouring Guyana’s lone Olympic medallist, Michael Parris, with a monument in a prominent place in the country.

“Why not a statue of Michael Parris as well?” he queried. Parris, a former national bantamweight champion, created history at the

1980 Olympic Games in Moscow, by copping a bronze medal in boxing. It remains Guyana’s first and only medal to date at the Olympics.

Support

In putting forward his case earlier this year for the construction of a monument of Lewis, GBBC President Abdool reasoned, “His singular achievement represented

a culmination of all of the countless years of toil and effort of all who preceded him- our amateur ranks through which he had to come, our loyal and dedicated trainers, corner men, sparring partners, the Guyana Boxing Board itself and the many, many loyal supporters over the years.”

Indeed, the construction of such a structure would be a constant reminder of the outstanding achievements of one of the country’s finest sons, and it would also serve an inspiration to those budding boxers who wish to emulate or even surpass the heights achieved by the Albouystown pugilist.

But, bringing this project to

reality is easier said than done. A collaborative effort is certainly required and private/public sector support, along with that of the government, is crucial in bringing the idea put forward by Abdool to fruition.

The GBBC has expressed a willingness to work with persons/ organisations in this venture. Ultimately, the aim is to preserve the legacy of a man who rose from the ghetto to earn the most soughtafter accolade in boxing.

In a 15-year professional career, spanning 1993 to 2008, Lewis appeared in 30 fights in which he notched up 23 victories, four losses, two draws and one no-contest.